Dan Puplett is a qualified carpenter based in Brighton and Hove. A large part of his work comes from personal recommendation and it has been a busy 2003 so far.

Dan hoped the Budget would bring no increases on fuel duty because anything that increased overheads could cut into profit margins and were difficult to pass on to customers.

He also hoped for measures to help young people in business start saving in a tax-efficient way.

Dan said: "The price of fuel is without doubt the main concern for me because adding to my costs is something I can do without. But saving is a big issue too."

l Dan was worried about an increase in fuel prices but this has been deferred until October, which is good news for him. He should also benefit from moves to boost new and growing businesses.