Christmas opening times

Our office will be closed from 1pm on Friday 23 December 2011 for the Christmas period.  There will be a skeleton staff in on 28th, 29th and the morning of 30th December.  We will be open again as normal on Tuesday 3rd January 2012 from 9:30am.  We would like to take this opportunity to wish all of our clients and contacts a very Merry Christmas and best wishes for a happy and prosperous 2012.

Banks to scrap foreign currency debit card charges

Customers will no longer be charged a fee for purchasing foreign currency in the UK with a debit card, it has been revealed.  Read the article here to find out more.

Business groups 'welcome banking sector reform'

UK business groups have given a broad welcome to the Government’s statement on reforming the structure of banking in the UK.  Read the article here.

MPs criticise HMRC’s ‘cosy relationships’ with big business

HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) has been accused of enjoying ‘unduly cosy’ relationships with big business, following the revelation that there remains more than £25 billion worth of unresolved tax issues with major companies.  Find out more and read the article on our website.

Connect with Bourner Bullock

Like us on facebook and follow us on twitter to make sure you keep up-to-date with the latest news from Bourner Bullock.

Employment tribunal fees 'will boost business'

The Government has launched a consultation on its proposals to introduce a system of fees for individuals who wish to raise a case in an employment tribunal.  Find out more on our website.

New taskforce seeks to 'diversify business finance'

Business groups have welcomed the introduction of a new industry-led Taskforce which will seek to boost the finance options accessible to UK firms.  Find out more and read the article on our website.

Photos from Michael Brooks' visit to JPA China

Michael Brooks, our Managing Partner, was part of a small team from Europe who met with Capital Certified Chartered Accountants (CPAS) in Beijing earlier this year. They were also joined by the regional JPA International members from Hong Kong and Singapore. JPA International is also represented in Seoul but the member was unable to join the meeting.

To see photos from the visit, check out the Bourner Bullock facebook page.

Winter 2011 Newsletter - Why pay more tax than you have to?

Find out more and click here to read our latest newsletter.  To subscribe to our newsletter list, click here.

Small business group calls for 'adequate broadband access for all'

The Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) is calling on the Government to ensure that its broadband policy will allow all small firms access to adequate broadband facilities.  Find out more on our website: http://www.bournerbullock.co.uk/data/enews_article.asp?nrg=%93q%7F%7BW%92%7CdN%92%84%A2%7Bms%7Fu%5B%90%9B%88d%5D

Tutors and coaches urged to disclose unpaid tax

HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) has issued a reminder to individuals wishing to take part in its new Tax Catch Up Plan.  Find out more on our facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Bourner-Bullock/179464378775003

Statutory residence test delayed until 2013

The implementation of the statutory residence test looks set to be delayed after draft legislation was excluded from the 2012 Finance Bill.  Find out more by reading the article on our facebook page: 

New rules to help ISA investors hit by collapse of financial firm

Plans to enable investors to 'top-up' ISA savings lost in the collapse of a financial firm have been outlined by the Treasury.  To find out more, read the article here.

Auto-enrolment delay 'could restrict new jobs'

Plans to delay pension auto-enrolment for small firms could lead to businesses imposing a cap on the number of new employees that they take on, some experts have claimed.  To find out more, read the article.

Business reacts to Autumn Statement announcements

The UK's leading business organisation, the Confederation of British Industry (CBI), has given a broad welcome to the 2011 Autumn Statement, which it has described as the Government's "Plan A Plus" in all but name.  Find out more on our website.

Credit easing scheme to 'provide £40bn in business loans'

Chancellor George Osborne has unveiled further details on the Government’s new 'credit easing' scheme ahead of tomorrow’s Autumn Statement.  Find out more on our website, www.bournerbullock.co.uk.

Business groups react to 'radical employment law reform'

The Government has unveiled a series of sweeping changes to employment law, which will make it more difficult for workers to raise a claim against their employer for unfair dismissal, and easier for employers to hire - and fire - their staff.  Find out more and read the article on the Bourner Bullock website.

Government announces new incentives for apprenticeships

The Government has announced a series of new measures aimed at encouraging small businesses to offer apprenticeships to young people.  Find out more on our website.

Bank of England warns of 'difficult economic recovery ahead'

The Bank of England has cut its economic growth forecast amid increasing uncertainty over the UK's economic recovery.  Find out more and read the article on the Bourner Bullock website.

Small business group welcomes new ‘Finance Fitness’ scheme

The Forum of Private Business (FPB) has welcomed the Government's new Finance Fitness initiative, which aims to improve the finance and cash flow issues faced by small businesses.  Find out more on our website.

Government unveils plans for simpler personal taxes

The Government has launched a new consultation setting out its vision for a simpler and more transparent personal tax system.  Find out more on the Bourner Bullock website.

Film tax relief extended to 2015

The British film industry has welcomed the extension of the film tax relief scheme to 31 December 2015.  For more information, read the article here.

Business group labels solar tariff cut 'an own goal'

The Confederation of British Industry (CBI) has criticised the Government's unexpected decision to cut in half the subsidies for household generated solar electricity, by the middle of next month.  To find out more, read the article here.

Online shoppers warned of unexpected tax bill

Online shoppers have been warned that they could incur an unexpected tax bill when ordering gifts from outside the EU.  To find out more, read the article here.

Calls for extension to national insurance 'holiday' scheme

The Government is being urged to extend the scope of its regional employer national insurance (NIC) ‘holiday’ scheme, as figures reveal continuing low levels of take-up by small businesses.  To find out more read the article here.

Businesses urged to prepare for harsh winter weather

Small businesses are being urged to start planning now for adverse winter weather, as forecasters predict the arrival of harsh weather conditions towards the end of the month.  To find out more, read the article on the Bourner Bullock website.

Further changes to VAT relief 'in the pipeline'

The Treasury is investigating further changes to VAT relief on goods imported from outside the EU, it has revealed.  To find out more, visit the Bourner Bullock website.

Give firms a tax break for hiring jobless young, urges CBI

UK firms should be given a tax incentive for taking on jobless young people as part of a range of measures to curb rising youth unemployment, according to a leading business group.  To find out more, read the article on the Bourner Bullock website.

UK families 'failing to plan for later life'

The majority of UK parents have not made a Will or carried out any form of inheritance tax planning, according to a new survey.  To find out more, read the article on the Bourner Bullock website.

Paper Tax Return deadline looming

Taxpayers only have a few days to file their Tax Return on paper without incurring a penalty.  To find out more, read the article on the Bourner Bullock website.

Call to boost support for 'forgotten army' of medium-sized firms

The Confederation of British Industry (CBI) has called on the Government to provide more support to the UK’s 'forgotten army' of medium-sized businesses.  To find out more, read the article here.

Business calls for manufacturing boost ahead of Autumn Statement

The UK's leading manufacturers' organisation, the EEF, has called on the Government to introduce urgent measures to help boost business growth, including tax cuts and industry incentives, in next month's Autumn Statement.  To find out more, read the article on the Bourner Bullock website.

Record number of fines issued to late filers

The number of fines issued for late Tax Returns has reached a record high, according to recent press reports.  Read the article here.

James Haigh has become a father!

It is with great pleasure that we announce that our Management Accounts Assistant James Haigh has become a father for the first time.  Olivia Elizabeth Haigh was born in the early hours of Sunday morning.  We wish him and his new family every happiness at this exciting time.

Business calls for tax incentives to boost private lending

The Government is being urged to cut taxes for private lenders and equity investors in a bid to increase the flow of credit to small firms.  To read the article, visit the Bourner Bullock website.

Unfair dismissal rule change 'could save business millions'

The Government has announced changes to the rules on unfair dismissal, which could save British businesses nearly £6 million a year.  To find out more about how these will affect you, read the article on the Bourner Bullock website.

New employment regulations come into force

A raft of new employment regulations have come into effect, including a 15p increase in the national minimum wage, new rights for agency workers, and the final abolishment of the default retirement age.  To find out more about the new regulations and how this will affect your company, read the article on the Bourner Bullock website.

New legislation means agency workers to have similar rights to permanent workers

Employers must ensure that they give agency workers similar rights in pay and benefits to those of permanent workers, following the introduction of new legislation.  To find out how this new legislation will affect you, read the article on our website: http://www.bournerbullock.co.uk/data/enews_article.asp?nrg=%93q%7F%7BW%91%7CbN%92%84%A2%7Bms%7Fu%5B%90%9B%88d%5D

UK will 'resist new EU financial tax'

The UK will 'resist' plans to impose a new tax on financial transactions between EU members, it has emerged.  To find out more, read the article here.

'Urgent action' needed to boost creative industries skills gap

The Confederation of British Industry (CBI) is calling for urgent action to be taken to boost the UK creative industries sector.  To find out about the report, read the article on the Bourner Bullock website.

Government publishes red tape report

The Government has published a new report on the status of its programme to reduce red tape for UK businesses.  To find out more about the report, read the article on the Bourner Bullock website.

Business group calls for new growth measures

The Government must do more to promote UK growth, the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) has warned.  To find out more, read the article on the Bourner Bullock website.

HMRC closes the ‘tax gap’

The difference between the amount of tax that should in theory be collected by HMRC and what actually is collected – known as the ‘tax gap’ – has fallen by £4 billion.  To find out more, read the article on the Bourner Bullock website.

Warning of 'soar' in fake HMRC phishing emails

HM Revenue and Customs has reported a 300% rise in fraudulent 'phishing' emails over the past year, with over 24,000 scam emails reported to HMRC in August alone.  To find out more about these emails, read the article on the Bourner Bullock website.

New guidance on minimum wage for work experience staff

The Government has issued new guidance for businesses who offer work experience, placements and internships, designed to clarify when someone is entitled to the National Minimum Wage (NMW).  To find out more, read the article on the Bourner Bullock website:

Quantitative easing 'prevented new recession', claims Bank of England

An analysis by the Bank of England claims that its policy of injecting money into the economy through quantitative easing (QE) saved Britain from a double-dip recession.  To find out more, read the article on the Bourner Bullock facebook page.

Cable demands that top companies justify executive salaries

Firms should be forced to justify large executive salaries and bonuses to their shareholders, according to Business Secretary Vince Cable.  To find out more, read the article on the Bourner Bullock website.

IFS calls for radical overhaul of the UK tax system

The Institute for Fiscal Studies (IFS) – a leading financial think tank – has published a review which calls for radical reform of the UK tax system, including abolishing fuel duty and stamp duty, expanding VAT and fully integrating National Insurance and income tax.  To find out more, read the article on the Bourner Bullock website.

Richard Ireland celebrates his 25th anniversary at Bourner Bullock!

It is with great pleasure that we celebrate today the 25th anniversary of Richard Ireland, our Senior Tax Consultant, joining the Bourner Bullock team.  Richard has been and continues to be a valuable member of our team and we look forward to continuing to work with him over the coming years.

HMRC issues reminder on new Self Assessment penalties

HM Revenue & Customs has issued a reminder about the new Self Assessment penalties for late returns and late payments, which come into effect this autumn and apply to returns for 2010/11, and all future financial years.  To find out more, read the article on the Bourner Bullock website.

50p tax rate "may not raise any extra revenue" claims

The Institute for Fiscal Studies (IFS) has found that the 50p tax rate for Britain's highest earners may not raise any extra revenue for the Treasury and could actually reduce it, according to a report by the Sunday Times, as wealthy Britons either move abroad or take advantage of permissible tax avoidance schemes to escape the rate.  To find out more, read the article on the Bourner Bullock website.

Vickers’ report calls for major reform of banking structure

The Independent Commission on Banking (ICB), backed by the Government and led by Sir John Vickers, has concluded that banks should ring-fence their retail banking divisions from their riskier 'casino' investment banking operations, to protect customer savings and prevent future taxpayer-funded bailouts.  To find out more, read the article on the Bourner Bullock website.

State pension age to 'rise earlier than planned'

The Government is to consider accelerating the rise in the state pension age following concerns that the current timetable is 'too slow'.  To find out more read the article here.  For more information about pension reform, read our factsheet Pension Reform and NEST: An Overview

Recession fuels decline in pension contributions

The number of people saving into a pension scheme has dropped by almost a half during the past two decades, new figures have shown.  To find out more, read the article on the Bourner Bullock website.

Savers 'miss out on £43bn in interest'

Historically low interest rates are adding to the woes of millions of savers looking to boost the return on their investments, new research suggests.  To find out more, read the article on the Bourner Bullock website.

Autumn Statement date is announced

The Chancellor George Osborne will make his Autumn Statement on 29 November, the Treasury has announced.  To find out more, read the article on the Bourner Bullock website.

50p tax rate doing 'lasting damage', say economists

The Chancellor George Osborne is being urged to scrap the 50p tax rate amid concerns over the UK economy.  To find out why, read the article on the Bourner Bullock website.

New measures to help employers take on apprentices

The Government has unveiled a package of measures aimed at making it easier for employers to take on apprentices.  To find out more, read the article on the Bourner Bullock website.

Auto-enrolment plans 'will lead to fall in pension contributions'

A third of employers are planning to cut their spend on workplace pensions in an attempt to mitigate the cost of the forthcoming reforms to the pension regime, a new study has found.  To find out more, read the article on the Bourner Bullock website.  To find out more about the new pension reforms, read our factsheet: Pension Reform and NEST - An Overview.

HMRC to check mortgage applications

Mortgage applications could come under scrutiny from HMRC following the launch of a new scheme designed to tackle fraud.  To read the article, visit the Bourner Bullock website.

UK businesses 'turning to eBay'

The online marketplace eBay has reported a 'surge' in the number of businesses using its services since the start of the recession.  To find out more, please visit the Bourner Bullock website or click here to read the article.

Bourner Bullock International Services

To find out more about Bourner Bullock's international services, see our website: http://bournerbullockinternational.co.uk/

More shops left empty as consumer numbers fall

More than 10% of shops in towns and cities across the UK were vacant at the end of May, latest figures have revealed.  To find out more, read the article on the Bourner Bullock website.

Cheque payments need to be improved, say MPs

A Committee of MPs has called for improvements to be made to cheques, including reducing the 'delays and uncertainty' surrounding cheque payments.  To find out more, read the article on the Bourner Bullock website.

Communities secretary warns against 'mansion tax'

Imposing a tax on properties worth £1 million or more would be a 'very big mistake,' according to the Communities Secretary, Eric Pickles.  To read more, visit the Bourner Bullock website to read the article.

Household finances 'worse than in the recession'

Household finances are declining at their fastest pace since the height of the recession in February 2009, new research suggests.  Read the article on the Bourner Bullock website to find out more.

Skills shortage 'hampering micro firms' ability to grow

Micro businesses are struggling to fulfil their ambition to grow because they are unable to find the right staff, a new report has claimed.  Visit the Bourner Bullock website to read the article.

Cameron pledges to support business as latest enterprise zones revealed

The Government has announced the locations of 11 new enterprise zones in England in a bid to boost local economies.  To find out more read the article on the Bourner Bullock website.

HMRC proposes to move more VAT filing online

HM Revenue and Customs has launched a consultation on the next steps for moving VAT online.  To find out more, visit the Bourner Bullock website and read the article....HMRC proposes to move more VAT filing online

Government closes capital allowances loophole

The Government has brought forward the closure of a loophole which allowed businesses to accelerate capital allowances claims for plant and machinery and obtain advantageous early tax relief.  To find out more read the article on the Bourner Bullock website....Government closes capital allowances loophole

Chancellor confirms 50p tax rate 'under review'

The Chancellor George Osborne has confirmed that HMRC is reviewing the 50% top rate of income tax, fuelling speculation that the rate will be scrapped next year.  To read more...Chancellor confirms 50p tax rate 'under review'

Osborne warns of 'long hard recovery' ahead

The Chancellor George Osborne has conceded that the UK’s economic recovery will take 'longer and be harder than hoped' following recent turbulence in the global financial markets.  To read more...Osborne warns of 'long hard recovery' ahead

First-time buyer loans on the rise

Around 18,000 loans for first-time buyers were approved in June, the highest number in 10 months.  To read more...First-time buyer loans on the rise

Tax and red tape 'hampering small firms' efforts to go green'

Tax and red tape are hampering small firms' efforts to become more environmentally friendly, according to new research by the Forum of Private Business (FPB).  To read more...Tax and red tape 'hampering small firms' efforts to go green'

Flexible working plans 'could undermine deregulatory drive'

Plans to extend the right to request flexible working to all employees could undermine the Government’s efforts to tackle red tape, a leading business group has claimed.  To find out more...Flexible working plans 'could undermine deregulatory drive'

VAT REGISTRATION - It's really not that simple !!

VAT invoices can only be issued by persons who are REGISTERED for VAT.

However non-registration does NOT relieve the person who was intially refused registration (pending further requested information to be provided), from the requirement to make VAT returns !! 

Regulation 25 of the 1995 VAT Regulations, requires EVERY person "..who is registered... or who is required to be registered...., to make VAT returns.

How, in practise, this would be done poses an interesting dilemma.

Pay freeze for three-quarters of staff, says CIPD

More than three-quarters of UK workers have had their pay frozen this year, latest figures from the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) have shown.  To find out more...Pay freeze for three-quarters of staff, says CIPD

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Intellectual property laws to be overhauled

The Government has unveiled plans to overhaul the UK's intellectual property laws in a bid to boost economic growth.  To find out more...Intellectual property laws to be overhauled

No rate rise until 2012, predict economists

It is unlikely that interest rates will rise before next year, according to some of the country’s leading economists.  To find out more...No rate rise until 2012, predict economists

Deregulatory measures 'to help SMEs access equity finance'

Two deregulatory amendments to the EU Prospectus Directive have been brought into force a year early in a bid to make it easier for small firms to access equity financing. To find out more...Deregulatory measures 'to help SMEs access equity finance'

Bourner Bullock and The Sumbandila Scholarship Trust

Bourner Bullock is proud to continue to support the work of The Sumbandila Scholarship Trust.  The Trust provides both full scholarships to private schools as well as an educational outreach programme to impoverished rural children in the Vhembe District of South Africa’s Limpopo Province.  The Trust’s latest newsletter, published in June 2011, outlines the achievements of the Trust and can be downloaded from their website.  Thanks to all of the donors, both corporate and personal, there are now 100 children attending the Outlier Programme of Saturday and Holiday Schools and 36 children are supported with full or partial residential and academic bursaries, most of them living in the Sumbandila hostels and attending Ridgeway College.  The Trust also provides essential pastoral care and counselling through their part-time mentor to all of the children who are accepted onto the scheme, to help them with the huge cultural and economic divide which they encounter between Sumbandila and their homes.  The Trust’s main donors are Marwyn Investments Management LLP and it is through this link with Marwyn which Bourner Bullock came to support the Trust’s work.  To find out more about the work of The Sumbandila Scholarship Trust, please visit the Sumbandila website, http://www.sumbandila.org/.

Pensions system in 'urgent need of reform'

The UK pensions system is in 'urgent need of reform' after it emerged that some 14 million people do not have a workplace pension.  To read more...Pensions system in 'urgent need of reform'

HMRC apologises for 'poor performance'

HMRC has apologised to taxpayers after a new report exposed a raft of problems with its services.  To read more...HMRC apologises for 'poor performance'

OTS seeks views on latest tax simplification proposals

Firms are being invited to give their views on new proposals aimed at simplifying small business taxation.  To read more...OTS seeks views on latest tax simplification proposals

Capital allowances 'too complicated' for small businesses

Tax breaks designed to encourage businesses to invest in new equipment are overly complex and fail to boost spending, a new study suggests.  To read the article...Capital allowances 'too complicated' for small businesses

Delay in tax statements as HMRC fails to order enough paper

Statements about self assessment balancing payments will be delayed this year for some 500,000 people after HMRC failed to order enough special paper.  To read more...Delay in tax statements as HMRC fails to order enough paper

Cost of red tape compliance on the rise

Businesses are spending more time and money on complying with regulations than ever before, latest research has shown.  To read more...Cost of red tape compliance on the rise

Head of JPA International promoted by French President

JPA International, of which Bourner Bullock is the UK member firm, are pleased to announce that their President Mr Jacques Potdevin was appointed Officer of the National Order of the Legion of Honour by decree of the President of the French Republic on Wednesday 13 July 2011. Bourner Bullock would like to congratulate Mr Potdevin on his new role and we wish him every success in this position.

JPA International is a worldwide network of 130 medium sized independent members, of comparable size and experience in 40 countries with the same ambition of high quality and personal service, as well as the same ethical standards based on our values of professionalism and independence. Our relationship within the JPA International network allows us to be involved together in the development of technical knowledge, the distribution of software, exchange of experience and to participate in multidisciplinary training programmes.  To find out more about JPA, visit: JPA International

Low interest rates 'deter young savers', study suggests

Low interest rates on children's savings accounts are deterring many parents from investing in their future, a new study suggests.  To read the article...Low interest rates 'deter young savers', study suggests

Mortgage lending still a concern

Total mortgage lending in June was down 3% on the equivalent month last year, according to the Council of Mortgage Lenders (CML), reflecting the poor state of the economy.  To read more...Mortgage lending still a concern

Bank of England unlikely to raise interest rates in near future

Earlier this month the Bank of England's Monetary Policy Committee decided to keep interest rates on hold at 0.5%, and minutes released from the meeting suggest that a rise is unlikely in the near term.  To read more...Bank of England unlikely to raise interest rates in near future

Junior ISA limit set to increase

The Treasury is expected to announce next week that the annual tax-free investment limit for the new Junior Individual Savings Accounts (JISA) will be £3,600, instead of the originally announced cap of £3,000, according to The Telegraph.  To find out more...Junior ISA limit set to increase

Government reaffirms intention to reform business rates system

Following a six-month review into council finance, Communities Secretary Eric Pickles has reaffirmed the Government’s intention to overhaul the way councils are allocated income from business rates.  To find out more...Government reaffirms intention to reform business rates system

OFT investigates websites reselling government services

The Office of Fair Trading (OFT) is to investigate the growing number of websites that try to sell government services that are normally very low cost or free of charge.  To find out more...OFT investigates websites reselling government services

Call for fast-track planning applications for small firms

The Government is being urged to fast-track small business planning applications to help firms cut through bureaucracy and drive economic growth.  To read more...Call for fast-track planning applications for small firms

Better news for retail

Early summer sales have meant that the annual rate of decline of retail sales has slowed, according to figures from the British Retail Consortium.  To read the article...Better news for retail

Rise in SME loan approvals but 'small firms still struggling'

A significant number of SMEs have successfully secured bank credit in the last 12 months, according to an independent survey conducted by the British Bankers’ Association (BBA) Taskforce.  To find out more...Rise in SME loan approvals but 'small firms still struggling'

Business voices concerns over pace of economic growth

The Government is being urged to take action on the economy amid fears that the pace of economic growth is faltering.  To read the article...Business voices concerns over pace of economic growth

VAT rule-breakers given final chance to come forward

HMRC has launched a new campaign to tackle businesses trading above the VAT threshold who have not registered for VAT.  To read the article...VAT rule-breakers given final chance to come forward

Pay gap between private and public sector widens

The average pay gap between private and public sector workers has widened by 47% in the last three years, latest figures have shown.  To read more...Pay gap between private and public sector widens

UK employment laws 'deter sole traders from hiring'

UK employment regulations deter many sole traders from recruiting their first employee, a new survey has found.  To find out more...UK employment laws 'deter sole traders from hiring'

New business mentoring scheme unveiled

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) will be offered more support on key business issues under a new scheme being launched by the banks.  To find out more...New business mentoring scheme unveiled

Plumbers' tax campaign prompts mixed response

A campaign to recoup unpaid tax from tradespeople has received a mixed response, after HMRC gathered £328,756 from voluntary disclosures.  To read the article...Plumbers' tax campaign prompts mixed response

Cheque guarantee scheme comes to an end

Thursday 30th June marked the final day for the cheque guarantee card following a decision by the UK Payments Council to withdraw the scheme. To find out more...Cheque guarantee scheme comes to an end

HMRC admits millions have not paid correct amount of tax

HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) has said that up to 4.7 million taxpayers will be sent letters later this year telling them they paid either too much or too little income tax in 2010/11.  To read more...HMRC admits millions have not paid correct amount of tax

NI number cards to be withdrawn from July

From next month HMRC will no longer send out National Insurance number cards, it has confirmed.  To find out more...NI number cards to be withdrawn from July

Online shoppers to gain greater protection under EU law

Consumers are to gain greater protection when purchasing goods on the internet after new measures were approved by the EU.  To read more...Online shoppers to gain greater protection under EU law

FSB hails rise in apprenticeships

The Federation of Small Businesses (FSB)  has welcomed news of a large increase in the number of apprenticeships in UK  businesses, particularly in sectors including advanced manufacturing and IT.  To find out more...FSB hails rise in apprenticeships

Mortgage lenders criticised over standard variable rates

Banks and building societies have been accused of exploiting homeowners on standard variable rate mortgages by Which?, the consumer interest group.  To find out more...Mortgage lenders criticised over standard variable rates

Government urged to support simpler EU contract law

The Government is being urged to support plans to simplify European contract law for small businesses.  To find out more...Government urged to support simpler EU contract law

iXBRL

Please take a look at our factsheet on iXBRL which affects all companies and organisations which are required to file a Company Tax Return for accounting periods ending after 31 March 2010.  If you would like to discuss these changes and what they mean for your company, please contact Bourner Bullock on +44 (0)20 7240 5821 and speak to a Partner.

'Limitless' domain suffixes to be made available

From next year, internet address names will be able to end with almost any word and be in any language, after the global internet body Icann voted to dramatically increase the number of possible domain endings.  To read more...'Limitless' domain suffixes to be made available

Business Matters Summer 2011 Newsletter

Please take a look at our latest newsletter Business Matters Summer 2011.  This issue of our newsletter includes advice on extracting income from a family company, details of HMRC's latest campaign to target tax evaders, and information on the new penalty regime for late filing.  If you would like to speak to a Partner about any of the issues in our newsletter, please contact Bourner Bullock on 020 7240 5821.

HMRC warns of tax credit email scams

HMRC has warned of a surge in the number of 'phishing' e-mails from fraudsters, ahead of the 31 July deadline for people to submit their tax credit renewal forms.  To find out more...HMRC warns of tax credit email scams

JPA International Conference - Kiev June 2011

Peter Watts, senior partner at Bourner Bullock recently attended the JPA International tax club meeting in Kiev.  To find out more about his visit and about the subjects discussed...JPA International Conference - Kiev June 2011

HMRC 'facing tax debt after businesses defer £1bn in tax payments'

Experts have raised fresh concerns over the Government's Time to Pay scheme after it emerged that HMRC could be left with up to £650 million in tax debts.  To find out more...HMRC 'facing tax debt after businesses defer £1bn in tax payments'

HMRC to target e-traders in new tax campaign

HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) is to launch a series of new campaigns to tackle tax avoidance, it has announced.  To read the rest of the article...HMRC to target e-traders in new tax campaign

Government launches inheritance tax consultation

The Government has launched a consultation on proposals to lower the rate of inheritance tax (IHT) to incentivise charitable giving.  To read more...Government launches inheritance tax consultation

New website to protect online shoppers from rogue retailers

A new website has been launched to help consumers avoid purchasing counterfeit goods online.  To read more...New website to protect online shoppers from rogue retailers

Banks and businesses 'must unite to stimulate economic growth'

A leading business group has called on banks and businesses to come together and rebuild the economy and stimulate economic growth.  To read more...Banks and businesses 'must unite to stimulate economic growth'

Money laundering changes 'to reduce burden on business'

The Treasury has published its recommendations for improving the Money Laundering Regulations and reducing the burden on British businesses.  To find out more...Money laundering changes 'to reduce burden on business'

Cutting NICs 'would boost small business employment'

Reducing national insurance contributions (NICs) would encourage small firms to take on more staff, a leading business group has said.  To find out more...Cutting NICs 'would boost small business employment'

Michael Brooks' Visit to JPA China May 2011

Michael Brooks, Managing Partner of Bourner Bullock, has just returned from Beijing following a short visit to meet the new JPA International member for China.

To find out more about Michael's visit...Michael Brooks' Visit to JPA China May 2011

Bourner Bullock Client in the press!

Our client Anaxsys Technology are featuring in a magazine supported by UKTI and BIS that will be ditributed with the Sunday Times this weekend.

You can see an online copy of the magazine on the link below: they have a double page feature on pp36-37, with the headline "Monitoring every breath".

UK's 'ostrich generation' is failing to plan for retirement

A new report suggests that only 39% of Britons have a financial plan to save for their retirement, even though a majority expect work pensions to become less generous.  To read the article...UK's 'ostrich generation' is failing to plan for retirement

Minister warns employers on pension transfer incentives

Pensions Minister Steve Webb has expressed concern at an increasing trend for employees being offered inducements to give up valuable pension rights.  To find out more...Minister warns employers on pension transfer incentives

Business Growth Fund 'unlikely to help small firms'

The majority of small firms seeking affordable finance will miss out on a new £2.5 billion funding scheme, the Forum of Private Business (FPB) has warned.  To read the article...Business Growth Fund 'unlikely to help small firms'

Review to examine small business tax administration

The Office of Tax Simplification (OTS) is to carry out a review of how bureaucracy in the tax system is hindering small businesses.  To find out more...Review to examine small business tax administration

Government consults on 'radical reform' of workplace entitlements

The Government has launched a consultation on plans to introduce a new system of parental leave and extend flexible working rights from 2015.  To read more...Government consults on 'radical reform' of workplace entitlements

Consumers welcome the return of inflation-linked bonds

National Savings & Investments (NS&I) has reintroduced one of its most popular products - tax-free, inflation-proof savings bonds.  To find out more...Consumers welcome the return of inflation-linked bonds

Fit notes failing to cut workplace absence, says CBI

Workplace absence cost the UK economy around £17 billion last year, despite the introduction of the acclaimed new ‘fit note’ system.  To read the article...Fit notes failing to cut workplace absence, says CBI

Employers reminded of annual return deadline

Employers are being urged to file their annual return (P35 and P14s) by the 19 May deadline or risk incurring a penalty.  To read more...Employers reminded of annual return deadline

Charities issue warning over cheque abolition

Plans to phase out cheques could lead to a 'devastating' decline in charitable donations, a fundraising body has warned.  To read the article...Charities issue warning over cheque abolition

Entrepreneurs advised to explore alternative funding options

Smaller entrepreneurs are being advised to explore the alternative funding options when setting up or growing a business.  To find out more...Entrepreneurs advised to explore alternative funding options

HMRC targets tradespeople in new tax amnesty

HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) is writing to around 50,000 tradespeople as part of a new campaign to target tax evaders.  To read more...HMRC targets tradespeople in new tax amnesty

MPs react to tax simplification measures

A group of MPs has welcomed plans to reduce the complexity of the UK tax system, but warns that much more work needs to be done.  To read the rest of the article...MPs react to tax simplification measures

Savers still under pressure despite fall in inflation, experts warn

The surprise fall in the rate of inflation will do little to counter the effects of the cost of living on savers, some experts have warned.  To read more...Savers still under pressure despite fall in inflation, experts warn

£450m Regional Growth Fund boost for business

Selected businesses will receive a share of £450 million worth of investment as part of the Regional Growth Fund scheme, the Government has announced.  To read the article...£450m Regional Growth Fund boost for business

Late tax return fines to rise sharply

People who submit their tax return after the 31 January deadline will face significantly higher penalties, HMRC has announced.  To find out more...Late tax return fines to rise sharply

Cameron launches assault on red tape

Businesses, individuals and community organisations have been given a welcome boost after the Prime Minister David Cameron vowed to 'rip up' 21,000 rules and regulations.  To read more...Cameron launches assault on red tape

Lloyds TSB and Bourner Bullock presentation 30.03.11

This seminar and networking event for professional firms, organised by Lloyds TSB, was held on Wednesday 30 March 2011 at the Irish Club, Tudor Street.  With presentations from both Bourner Bullock and Lloyds TSB, the evening focused on business structures and tax planning.  Those who attended included Hubert Ashton (Peachey & Co), Piers Petrie (Chapman Petrie LLP), Stuart Miller and Ian Baker (Miller Rosenfalck) and Christopher Harper (Gregory Rowcliffe Milners) among many others.  Representing the Bourner Bullock team were David Matkins, Michael Brooks, Richard Ireland, Arun Mistry and Nicola James.  Both David and Arun gave informative and well received presentations, as did Nigel Lowe from Lloyds TSB. The evening was a great success, being a good opportunity to not only share our expertise with clients and contacts who we know well, but to meet new faces and make new connections.  We look forward to being involved in similarly successful events run by Lloyds TSB in the future and would like to thank them publically for inviting us to speak at this event.

New financial year sees raft of tax and benefit changes

As a raft of changes to the tax and benefits system comes into force, many experts are warning that families and middle income earners will feel the pinch.  To read the article...New financial year sees raft of tax and benefit changes

New paternity leave rules come into effect

New fathers may be able to take up to six months' leave during their baby's first year after changes to the paternity leave regulations came into effect.  To read the article...New paternity leave rules come into effect

Junior ISA details are revealed

A new Junior Individual Savings Account (ISA) will be available from 1 November, the Government has announced.  To read more...Junior ISA details are revealed

Pensioners warned over HMRC error

Thousands of pensioners are due to receive an unexpected tax bill after HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) made an error when calculating their tax code.  To find out more...Pensioners warned over HMRC error

Cameron to launch StartUp Britain scheme for entrepreneurs

A new scheme aimed at encouraging would-be entrepreneurs to start up their own business will be unveiled by the Prime Minister later today.  To read more...Cameron to launch StartUp Britain scheme for entrepreneurs

Savers 'overlooked by Budget'

Saving groups have expressed their disappointment following the Chancellor's Budget on Wednesday.  To read more...Savers 'overlooked by Budget'

Corporation tax to be cut by 2% from April

The main rate of corporation tax will fall by 2% from April before reaching 23% by 2014, the Chancellor has announced.  To find out more...Corporation tax to be cut by 2% from April

Chancellor presents 'a Budget for growth'

Chancellor George Osborne heralded his second Budget as one 'for enduring growth and jobs'. Despite downgrading the economic growth forecast for 2011 from 2.1% to 1.7%, the Chancellor insisted that the Government's fiscal plans were on course.  To read more...Chancellor presents 'a Budget for growth'

Osborne to raise income tax threshold in 'pro-growth Budget'

The personal income tax allowance will rise by £600 from next April, the Chancellor will announce in today’s Budget.  To find out more...Osborne to raise income tax threshold in 'pro-growth Budget'

Chancellor tipped to unveil plans for NI and income tax merger

Plans to merge national insurance (NI) and income tax could be unveiled in tomorrow's Budget, it has been reported.  To find out more...Chancellor tipped to unveil plans for NI and income tax merger

Health and safety regulations 'to be relaxed'

The Government will today outline plans to relax health and safety regulations to help reduce the 'red tape burden' on UK businesses and encourage economic growth.  To read more...Health and safety regulations 'to be relaxed'

Small firms to be given 'three-year exemption from new laws'

Small firms with fewer than 10 staff will be given a three-year moratorium on new employment regulations under plans to be unveiled by the Government.  To read more...Small firms to be given 'three-year exemption from new laws'

Fuel duty rise would 'stifle economic growth', says FSB

The Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) has urged the Government to reverse next month's increase in fuel duty amid fears that it will stifle economic growth.  To read the article...Fuel duty would 'stifle economic growth', says FSB

Middle income families 'will struggle to pay debts,' warns CCCS

Tax and benefit changes, coupled with job losses and rising interest rates, could leave many middle income families struggling to repay their debts, a charity has warned.  To read the article...Middle income families 'will struggle to pay debts,' warns CCCS

Government 'considering maternity leave exemptions for small firms'

Small businesses could benefit from changes to the maternity and paternity rules as part of a major 'deregulation drive' by the Government, according to recent reports.  To read more...Governmnet 'considering maternity leave exemptions for small firms'

Treasury 'missing out on £16bn in unpaid tax'

HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) and Companies House have failed to collect around £16 billion in taxes after thousands of firms 'disappeared' from their radar, a new report has claimed.  To find out more...Treasury 'missing out on £16bn in unpaid tax'

Small business taxation needs 'major structural change'

The Office of Tax Simplification (OTS) has called for 'major structural change' to small business taxation following a review into the future of the tax and IR35 system.  To read more...Small business taxation needs 'major structural change'

Report calls for public pensions shake-up

Those in the public sector should work for longer and pay more for their pension as part of a major overhaul of the current system, a new report has stated.  To read more...Report calls for public pensions shake-up

Companies reminded of corporation tax changes

UK companies are being alerted to the forthcoming changes to corporation tax filing and payment.  To find out more...Companies reminded of corporation tax changes

New 'enterprise zones’ to ‘boost UK economy'

New 'enterprise zones' are to be set up throughout Britain to help boost economic growth, the Chancellor George Osborne has announced.  To read more...New 'enterprise zones' to 'boost UK economy'

Cameron pledges to fight 'enemies of enterprise'

The Prime Minister David Cameron has pledged to remove the 'barriers to growth' and fight the 'enemies of enterprise' ahead of the upcoming Budget.  To read more...Cameron pledges to fight 'enemies of enterprise'

Pension Planning for Tax Mitigation 2010/11

Please click here to read our latest factsheet on Pension Planning for Tax Mitigation 2010/11.  If you would like to discuss any of these issues please contact us as soon as possible.

Planning for Tax Mitigation 2010/11

Click here to read our factsheet about Planning for Tax Mitigation 2010/11.  If you would like to discuss any of the issues raised in this factsheet, please contact us as soon as possible.

OTS publishes final recommendations on UK tax reliefs

Tax-free luncheon vouchers and relief on late night taxis are just some of the allowances that may be culled following a report by the Office of Tax Simplification (OTS).  To read more....OTS publishes final recommendations on UK tax reliefs

New fuel rates published as petrol prices climb to record high

HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) has issued new fuel advisory rates, which apply to all relevant journeys made on or after 1 March 2011.  To read more...New fuel rates published as petrol prices climb to record high

Business voices concerns over proposed HMRC spot checks

The Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) has warned that proposed spot checks on company records could be used purely as a 'revenue raising exercise' by HMRC.  To read the rest of the article...Business voices concerns over proposed HMRC spot checks

Disappointing GDP figures highlight 'need for growth Budget'

Business groups have called for the upcoming Budget to focus on growth following the release of worse than expected GDP figures.  To read the rest of the article....Disappointing GDP figures highlight 'need for growth Budget'

ISA savers 'missing out on £1,300 in interest'

Savers who leave their money in poorly paying ISAs could be losing out on up to £1,300 a year in interest, new research has found.  To read more...ISA savers 'missing out on £1,300 in interest'

Corporation tax rates may need to be reduced further, warns CBI

The Confederation of British Industry (CBI) has applauded plans to phase in a reduction in corporation tax, but warns that rates may still need to be lowered further.  To find out more...Corporation tax rates may need to be reduced further, warns CBI

HMRC announces new plan to target tax evaders

People who persistently evade tax will have their tax affairs scrutinised more closely following the launch of a new scheme by HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC).  To read more...HMRC announces new plan to target tax evaders

Small businesses call for internship programme to be extended

The Government is being urged to extend its Graduate Internship Scheme amid rising concerns over youth unemployment.  To read the article....Small businesses call for internship programme to be extended

Business welcomes sickness absence review

Business and employer groups have welcomed the launch of a Government review aimed at reducing the cost of sickness absence in the UK.  To read the rest of the article...Business welcomes sickness absence review

Time to train regulations delayed for SMEs

The Government has postponed its plans to extend the 'time to train' regulations to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) following criticism from business groups.  To read the article...Time to train regulations delayed for SMEs

Call to extend NICs holiday to existing businesses

The Regional Employer National Insurance Contributions (NICs) holiday should be extended to help curb rising unemployment, a leading business group has said.  To read the article...Call to extend NICs holiday to existing businesses

Warning over cost of employment law changes

New employment legislation set to come into force later this year will cost businesses £22.87bn, the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) has warned.  To read the article....Warning over cost of employment law changes

Study finds nearly half of pensioners plan to continue working

Nearly half of pensioners due to retire this year may be forced to continue working, according to new research.  To read more....Study finds nearly half of pensioners plan to continue working

Small firms to gain improved access to Government contracts

Plans to make it easier for small businesses to compete for public sector contracts have been outlined by the Prime Minister David Cameron.  To find out more....Small firms to gain improved access to Government contracts

New measures to boost small business exports

Plans to encourage exporting amongst smaller companies have been outlined by the Business Secretary, Vince Cable.
Following concerns over a decline in UK exports, four new schemes are being launched to help exporters gain access to credit and insure themselves against risk. To find out more....New measures to boost small business exports

HMRC issues fresh warning over fraudulent emails

Taxpayers are being urged to remain vigilant after HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) reported a surge in the number of phishing emails being sent in the wake of the Self Assessment deadline. To read more...HMRC issues fresh warning over fraudulent emails

Spring 2011 Business Matters Newsletter

Our Spring 2011 Business Matters Newsletter is now available online on our website. To find out more....Spring 2011 Business Matters Newsletter

Government unveils shared maternity leave plan

Plans to allow workers to share maternity leave have been outlined by the Deputy Prime Minister, Nick Clegg.
The proposals, which were first announced by the previous Labour Government, will allow new fathers to take the final months of the mother's maternity leave if she opts to return to work early. To find out more...Government unveils shared maternity leave plan

Extra 750,000 people to pay 40% tax from April

Three quarters of a million people will start paying income tax at the higher rate when changes to the tax thresholds come into effect in April, a leading think-tank suggests.  To find out more....Extra 750,000 people to pay 40% tax from April

New penalties for offshore tax evasion

Changes to the penalty regime for tackling offshore tax evasion are set to come into force later this year, HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) has confirmed. To find our more....New penalties for offshore tax evasion

World Congress of Accountants

Michael Brooks from Bourner Bullock Chartered Accountants based in London recently attended the World Congress of Accountants (WCOA) in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia (November 2010) as part of the delegation representing JPA International. To find out more....World Congress of Accountants