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Fri 10 Oct 2007Boost to investment in NorthThe North's Minister for Finance Peter Robinson has aimed his first budget at boosting investment, competitiveness and increasing the private wealth-creating sector. Despite a drive for much greater efficiency in the public sector which upset some trade unionists, the Minister is also appealing for public support via a massive programme of investment.His statement combined a series of business-friendly announcements, principally a decision to cap business rates, and incentives designed to encourage nearly 700 businesses to become exporters.