The Tax Landscape for contractors under Labour

The Labour Party, following its election victory, is set to implement significant changes in tax and employment policies. Key proposals include the abolition of zero-hours contracts, a review of worker status, and the establishment of a Single Enforcement Body for workers' rights. The government also plans to tackle tax avoidance, reform the Apprenticeship Levy, and introduce new powers to sanction company directors for financial failures. Contractors are advised to be cautious of tax avoidance schemes as HMRC increases its compliance efforts.

Employment Rights Bill 2024 and the labour industry

The Employment Rights Bill 2024, introduced by the Labour Government, aims to enhance workers' rights with significant reforms, including zero hours contract regulations, flexible working entitlements, and statutory sick pay adjustments. The Bill, which builds on the 1996 Employment Rights Act, is subject to parliamentary scrutiny and public consultation, with some measures expected to take effect by 2026. The legislation also proposes changes to redundancy procedures, maternity protections, and trade union rights. PayStream offers support to businesses navigating these changes, highlighting potential challenges for smaller enterprises lacking HR and legal resources.

Labour win a historic landslide

The Labour Party, led by Kier Starmer, has won a historic landslide victory, marking their first term in over 14 years. They plan to introduce new legislation within 100 days, focusing on being both 'pro-worker' and 'pro-business.' Labour has pledged to tackle tax evasion with additional funding for HMRC and aims to protect workers by establishing a single enforcement body for employment rights. The party's proposals are positively received, especially in addressing non-compliance in the umbrella company market, with potential changes to employment status frameworks and liability transfers in the supply chain.

Countdown to the Labour Budget

The upcoming Labour Budget, set for 30th October, is anticipated to address the UK's economic challenges, including a £22bn financial deficit. Key proposals may involve rewriting fiscal borrowing rules to boost capital expenditure, revising non-domicile taxation rules, and potential changes to Capital Gains Tax (CGT). Speculation suggests possible increases in CGT rates, adjustments to pension tax relief, fuel duty, inheritance tax, and stamp duty exemptions. The Labour Party's approach aims to balance economic growth with necessary fiscal adjustments, amidst concerns about the impact on wealthy individuals and property investments.

Autumn Budget 2024 – ‘Fixing the foundations to deliver change'

The Autumn Budget 2024, delivered by Chancellor Rachel Reeves, marks the first Labour Budget in 15 years and introduces several significant fiscal measures. Key initiatives include a means-tested Winter Fuel Allowance, changes to capital borrowing rules, increased National Living Wage, and substantial investments in social housing, schools, the NHS, and childcare. The budget also proposes a rise in windfall tax on energy companies and changes to National Insurance Contributions and Capital Gains Tax. The budget aims to address the UK's fiscal challenges and promote economic growth, with potential tax changes effective from April 2025.

What could an election–friendly budget deliver?

The article explores potential measures in the upcoming UK Spring Budget, set to be delivered by Chancellor Jeremy Hunt. With a general election anticipated in November, the budget is expected to address various economic and taxation issues. Key topics include potential changes to income tax, inheritance tax, personal tax allowance, VAT threshold, fuel duty, and child benefit clawback thresholds. The article assesses the likelihood of these measures being announced, considering the political and economic context.

Spring 2024 Budget summary

Chancellor Jeremy Hunt's Spring 2024 Budget includes a range of measures aimed at promoting sustainable growth in the UK economy. Key proposals include reductions in National Insurance Contributions, an increase in the VAT registration threshold, a new UK ISA, and a new tax on vaping products. The budget also addresses housing issues with changes to the Furnished Holiday Lettings tax regime and Capital Gains Tax. Additional funding is allocated to key government departments, including the NHS, Police, Courts, and Local Government, with a focus on technology and efficiency improvements.

Wigan wet wipe plant to benefit from more work due to German plant closure

Nice-Pak International is closing its production facility in Osterweddingen, Germany, and will transfer production to its UK plants in Flint and Wigan. This decision follows a strong year for the company and a strategic review of market conditions, positioning the UK plants to better compete in Europe. CEO Gary Giles acknowledges the impact on the German workforce and commits to a smooth transition, while expressing confidence in the UK teams.

Is Portugal taking the European elections seriously?

The article examines Portugal's engagement with the upcoming European elections, highlighting the political dynamics and strategies of key parties such as Chega, the Socialist Party, and the Democratic Alliance. It discusses the potential impact of these elections on domestic politics, particularly in light of recent legislative outcomes. Key issues include migration policy and economic strategies, with parties like Chega and the Socialist Party expressing differing views. The article also notes the potential for reduced Portuguese influence in the European Parliament due to the inexperience of lead candidates.

Portugal and the Slave Trade: Government and President at Odds - Should the Country Pay Reparations for Colonial-Era Crimes?

Portugal's government has stated it does not plan to pay reparations for its role in transatlantic colonialism and slavery, despite President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa's view that the country should compensate for these 'crimes.' The right-center government, previously led by de Sousa's party, rejects this idea, while the far-right party Chega demands a parliamentary vote to condemn the president's comments. The debate resurfaced after de Sousa suggested Portugal should take 'full responsibility' for past atrocities, including massacres and violence. The Brazilian Minister for Racial Equality, Anielle Franco, calls for 'concrete steps' to back these words. Portugal's current stance remains unchanged, with no processes or programs for reparations, although the previous socialist government had intentions to return stolen items to former colonies.