Protecting your business in adverse conditions

With many areas of the UK having experienced challenging weather conditions in the run-up to the festive period, business owners are advised to make sure they have in place sufficient contingency plans to cover any unexpected incidents that could occur over the coming months.  To find out more, read our article on our website.

Government announces changes to redundancy rules

The Government has announced changes to the rules on collective redundancies, including a halving of the statutory minimum 90 day consultation period before large scale redundancies can take place.  Find out more and read the article here.

HMRC hotline delays 'leave taxpayers with £33m phone bill'

HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) is facing criticism after a new report found that delays in answering phone calls resulted in taxpayers being charged tens of millions of pounds.  Click here to find out more.

New figures reveal rise in inheritance tax receipts

HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) netted almost £3bn from inheritance tax (IHT) in 2011/12, latest figures suggest. To find out more, read the full article here.

Modest earners 'to be hit by pension tax relief cuts'

Plans to cut the annual and lifetime pensions tax allowances have attracted criticism from the pensions industry, with some experts warning that the changes could have an impact on individuals with final salary schemes.  To find out more, click here to read the full article.

2012 Autumn Statement: How will the measures affect you?

Chancellor George Osborne unveiled a number of significant measures affecting both individuals and businesses, in his 2012 Autumn Statement.  To read our summary, click here.

Chancellor set to reveal Autumn Statement measures

Chancellor George Osborne will deliver the 2012 Autumn Statement to the House of Commons today, with many economists predicting that the Office for Budget Responsibility will cut its economic growth forecasts for the UK, and that the Chancellor has failed to meet his ‘golden rules’ on the economy.  To read the full article click here.

Revenue publish guidance on PAYE Real Time penalties

HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) has published guidance on the penalties for filing late and inaccurate returns, for employers operating PAYE via Real Time Information (RTI).  Find out more on our website.

Small businesses 'drifting away from bank lending'

Small businesses are moving away from bank funding because they are struggling to secure the necessary finance, new research suggests.  Find out more on our website.

Chancellor urged to focus on 'a new growth strategy'

An influential think tank has urged Chancellor George Osborne to prioritise regional growth and innovation in his forthcoming Autumn Statement, and to avoid making ‘expensive’ short-term tax cuts.  Find out more on our website.

New survey suggests pensions are still 'too complex'

Pensions are still too complex for many individuals to understand, according to a new survey from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).  Find out more on our website.

Small business 'must be at the heart of reforms'

The Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) has urged Chancellor George Osborne to put small firms 'at the heart' of reforms, as the 2012 Autumn Statement approaches.  To find out more, click here to read the full article.

Small business group delivers five-point plan for Autumn Statement

The Forum of Private Business (FPB) has delivered a five-point action plan to Chancellor George Osborne, ahead of the 2012 Autumn Statement.  To find out more, read the article here.

Pension tax relief 'under threat' in forthcoming Autumn Statement

Tax relief on the pension contributions of higher earners could be under threat in the forthcoming Autumn Statement, some economists have warned.  Find out more on our website.

Government reveals 'one-in, two-out' policy to cut red tape

The Government’s so-called ‘one-in, one-out’ policy on regulation is to be overhauled from next year following concerns that Whitehall is ‘holding back’ on the Coalition’s pledge to ‘light a bonfire’ on red tape.  To find out more, click here to read the article.

Call for new £1bn tax relief ahead of Autumn Statement

An emergency ‘first-come, first serve’ tax relief should be set up to encourage businesses to commit to major capital investments, according to the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC).  Find out more and read the article on our website.

Business reacts to parental leave plans

Business groups have given a broad welcome to new reforms that will extend flexible working rights to all employees, and allow new parents to share up to a year’s leave to look after their newborn baby.  To find out more, please click here to read the full article.

Call to revamp Gift Aid as charitable donations fall

Charitable organisations have called on the Government to modernise Gift Aid after new figures revealed that philanthropic donations fell by 20% in the last year.  To find out more, read the article on our website.

Government set to extend flexible working to all

The right to request flexible working could be extended to all employees, under new proposals set to be unveiled by Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg.  Find out more and read the article here.

Government to consult on NEST pension restrictions

The Government is to consult on plans to lift some of the restrictions governing the new National Employment Savings Trust, also known as NEST.  To find out more, read the article here.

Gender pay gap 'set to increase'

The gender pay gap is set to increase for the first time on record, as public sector cuts begin to bite, according to research conducted by pay equality group The Fawcett Society.  To find out more, read the article here.

Committee report calls for apprenticeship reform

A committee of MPs is calling for a series of changes to the Government’s apprenticeship programme following an 11-month inquiry into the existing system.  To find out more, read the full article on our website.

Quarter of small firms 'unaware' of major changes to PAYE

A quarter of small firms are ‘unaware’ of forthcoming changes to the way in which they must report their payroll, a leading business group has warned.  To find out more about RTI, read the article here or contact us for more information.

Small firms 'to benefit from energy bill reforms'

An extra 150,000 small businesses are set to benefit from changes to the rules regarding gas and electricity bills, the energy regulator Ofgem has announced.  To find out more, click here to read the article.

Government announces supply chain boost for SMEs

Prime Minister David Cameron has announced a multi-billion pound boost for the UK supply chain, following an agreement by some of the UK’s leading companies to commit to a Supply Chain Finance scheme.  Find out more on our website.

UK tax gap stands at £32 billion

The UK ‘tax gap’, which indicates the difference between the amount of tax that should have been collected by HM Revenue & Customs, and the amount of tax that was actually collected, has risen to £32bn, according to the latest figures.  Find out more and read the article on our website.

Latest figures suggest UK growth 'significantly overestimated'

The Government’s independent forecasting body, the Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR), has revealed that it failed to anticipate the scale of the economic slowdown in the UK between 2010 and 2012, predicting that growth would be six times stronger than the latest economic figures actually suggest.  To find out more, click here to read the article.

Pension pot transfer plans 'could wipe 25% off retirement income'

Plans to make it easier for workers to transfer their workplace pensions could cut individuals’ retirement income by up to a quarter, some experts have warned.  Find out more on our website.

Small business costs 'continue to rise'

A new survey has suggested that the cost of doing business has continued to increase throughout 2012, with energy costs accounting for the most commonly occurring increase.  To find out more, read the article here.

Retailers call for freeze in business rates

Retail chiefs are calling on the Government to freeze business rates ahead of an announcement on September’s RPI inflation figure.  To find out more, read the article on our website.

'Presenteeism' on the rise as recession bites

Levels of employee absence have fallen among UK firms, but employers are reporting a rise in the number of staff coming into work ill.  To read the article, click here.

One third of top online retailers 'breaking consumer laws'

The Office of Fair Trading (OFT) is urging online retailers to review their websites, following the revelation that more than a third of the UK’s top retail sites are breaking consumer laws.  Read the article on our website.

Government unveils latest measures to 'tackle red tape burden'

The Government has announced a raft of changes to the Enterprise and Regulatory Reform Bill, as part of its efforts to reduce the regulatory burden on UK businesses.  Find out more on our website.

New scheme to exchange employee rights for share ownership

Chancellor George Osborne has unveiled plans for a new employee share ownership scheme, under which employees will exchange some of their existing employment rights for the right to own shares in the business.  Find out more on our website.

Extending NICs holiday 'could create an extra 45,000 jobs'

Extending the national insurance contributions (NICs) holiday to all micro firms would create an additional 45,000 jobs, according to a leading business group.  To find out more, read the article here.

Government rules out 'mansion tax' and pledges £10bn benefit cut

The Government has ruled out the introduction of a so-called ‘mansion tax’, and has stated that it needs to make a further £16bn of savings by 2015/16 in order to meet its fiscal targets.  Find out more and read the article here.

Business welcomes early roll-out of 4G technology

The Confederation of British Industry (CBI) has welcomed the announcement that high speed 4G mobile internet services will be running on multiple networks across the UK, up to six months earlier than originally planned.  Find out more on our website.

Business group calls for clarification on new health and safety fees

A leading business group has called for further clarification on the new health and safety Fee For Intervention (FFI) rules, after it raised concerns over ‘ambiguities’ in the current legislation.  To find out more, read the rest of the article here.

New small claims track for intellectual property disputes

A new small claims track has been introduced to the Patents County Court, with the aim of speeding up the court process and making it easier for small and medium-sized businesses in England and Wales to protect their intellectual property (IP).  Find out more on our website.

'Positive growth returns' yet UK economy 'remains stagnant', says BCC

The UK economy grew in the three months to September but fixing the country’s finances will take longer than planned, according to the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC).  Find out more and read the article here.

Pension auto-enrolment marks 'step change' for retirement savings

Radical changes to the UK workplace pension system, which will affect millions of individuals, have started to take effect.  Find out more and read the article on our website.

Revenue set to recover £4bn in tax avoidance crackdown

The Government is set to recover £4bn in lost tax this year through its crackdown on tax avoidance, according to Chief Secretary to the Treasury, Danny Alexander.  Find out more and read the article on our website.

Town centres told to embrace online shopping in order to succeed

UK town centres must embrace online shopping if they are to prosper over the next decade, according to a new report.  Find out more on our website.

New rules to simplify VAT e-invoicing for small businesses

Invoicing customers electronically is set to become easier for small and medium-sized businesses, when changes to an EU Directive on VAT invoicing come into effect in the New Year.  Find out more on our website.

King predicts recovery for UK economy

The governor of the Bank of England, Sir Mervyn King, has said that UK economic growth is likely to pick up in the next quarter.  To find out more, read the article here.

600,000 people to be signed up to new pension scheme by the end of 2012

Some 600,000 more people will be saving into a workplace pension scheme by the end of the year, according to official estimates.  To find out more about the auto-enrolment scheme, read our latest newsletter.  Contact us to discuss how your company will be affected.

New business bank 'will require £40bn of capital'

The newly proposed Government-backed ‘business bank’ will require an injection of £40bn of capital over the first four years in order to work successfully, according to the Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR).  To find out more, read the full article here.

Rise in credit refusals hits small business confidence

An increasing number of small firms are being refused finance, resulting in a fall in business confidence, a new survey has revealed.  Find out more on our website.

One in three SMEs 'remain unaware' of new RTI regime

One in three small and medium-sized businesses remain unaware of the impact that the new Real Time Information (RTI) regime will have on their firm, according to recent research.  Find out more and read the article here.

Government backs cut in unfair dismissal payouts

The maximum amount of compensation that can be awarded for unfair dismissal is to be cut, as part of a series of measures to reform the employment tribunal system.  Find out more and read the article here.

HMRC nets additional £500m from UK's richest taxpayers

HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) has collected an additional £500 million in tax from the UK’s wealthiest individuals, according to new data.  Find out more on our website.

Chancellor sets date for 2012 Autumn Statement

Chancellor George Osborne has confirmed that the 2012 Autumn Statement will be delivered at 12.30pm on Wednesday 5 December.  What is it expected to cover?  Find out on our website.

Half of workers 'unaware' of pension auto-enrolment reforms

More than half of workers are unaware of a scheme to automatically enrol employees into a workplace pension, a new study has found.  Find out more on our website.

'Thousands of businesses' to benefit from health and safety overhaul

Many thousands of businesses are set to benefit from a radical overhaul of health and safety regulations with effect from April 2013, the Government has announced.  To find out more, click here to read the article.

Business group welcomes investigation into fuel prices

The Forum of Private Business (FPB) has welcomed the launch of an investigation into fuel prices by the Office of Fair Trading.  Find out more on our website.

Businesses and homeowners to 'benefit from shake-up of planning laws'

Businesses and homeowners are set to benefit from a shake-up of the planning regulations under Government plans designed to boost the construction industry.  Read the article for more information.

Business groups welcome plans for state-backed small business bank

Business groups have welcomed Government proposals to introduce a new state-backed small business bank, in a bid to tackle the ongoing difficulties faced by small firms seeking credit.  Read the full article on our website to find out more.

Taxpayers urged to submit historic tax returns under new HMRC campaign

Thousands of higher rate taxpayers with gaps in their self assessment record will receive letters urging them to take part in a new HMRC campaign to recoup unpaid tax. Read the article here.

Excessive credit card surcharges set to be banned

The Government has unveiled new proposals which will make it unlawful to impose excessive hidden surcharges when consumers make payments for goods and services using a credit or debit card.  Find out more and read the article here.

'More than half' of SMEs rely on a spouse to help run the business

A new study has suggested that 51% of small business owners and managers rely on their spouse or partner to help run their business.  Read the article here to find out more.

'Free banking' comes under fire

Banks are charging customers excessive transaction fees for daily banking services, according to new research.  Find out more and read the article here.

Unexpected increase in borrowing triggers calls for policy changes

UK borrowing figures for July reached £600m, figures from the Office for National Statistics have revealed.  Find out more on our website.

Government announces new measures to 'transform consumer rights'

The Department for Business, Innovation and Skills has published a consultation on new measures which are set to deliver ‘greater clarity and transparency’ on consumer rights.  Find out more and read the article here.

Scrapping Sunday trading laws 'is no magic answer'

Government plans to consider relaxing Sunday trading laws on a permanent basis have sparked criticism from groups opposing the measure.  To find out more, read the article here.

Small firms urged to inform Revenue of any business changes

Small businesses are being urged to ensure that they keep HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) updated on any changes to their business, no matter how small they may be.  Find out more on our website.

SMEs 'discounting and diversifying' to capitalise on summer events

Small and medium-sized business owners are diversifying and discounting in a bid to capitalise on this summer’s sporting and celebratory events, latest figures suggest.  Find out more on our website.

Bank of England cuts UK growth forecast

The Bank of England has slashed its UK economic growth forecast, as widely anticipated by financial experts.  Find out more and read the article here.

SMEs 'face deteriorating business conditions'

Small and medium-sized manufacturers have experienced a drop in output, and levels of optimism have also fallen, according to a new report from the Confederation of British Industry (CBI).  Find out more on our website.

Business groups unite to tackle late payment culture

Some of the UK’s largest business groups have signed up to the Government’s Prompt Payment Code (PPC) in a bid to tackle the issue of late payment.  To find out more, read the article here.

Employers 'failing to advise staff' on discrimination issues

Employers are failing to provide advice to staff on dealing with issues of discrimination in the workplace, a new report has suggested.  Find out more on our website.

Government joins small business groups to tackle late payment

The Government has joined forces with some of the UK’s leading small business groups in a bid to tackle the ongoing issue of late payment, which has a significant impact on small firms in the UK.  Find out more on our website.

£80 billion bank lending scheme is launched

A new scheme aimed at boosting lending to homebuyers and small businesses has come into effect.  Find out more on our website.

Disposable income falls to lowest level in almost a decade

The average disposable income has fallen to its lowest level in nine years, latest figures suggest.  Find out more and read the article here.

'Disappointing' take-up of new Junior ISAs

Take-up of the new Junior Individual Savings Account (JISA) has proved ‘disappointing’, with the number of accounts opened falling far below HMRC’s initial predictions.  To find out more, read the article on our website.

Pension auto-enrolment 'will stop the savings slump'

The new pension auto-enrolment regulations will act to reverse the current slump in pension savings, according to Pensions Minister Steve Webb.  Find out more on our website.

2012 Olympics will showcase 'the best of Britain'

As the London 2012 Olympics get underway, the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) has highlighted the Games as an opportunity to showcase the ‘best of Britain’ and provide a much-needed boost for British business.  Read the rest of the article here.  Bourner Bullock are open as usual during the Olympics.  Click here to find out more.

Business groups give mixed reactions to latest fall in GDP

Business groups have given mixed initial reactions to the latest figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS), which suggest that the UK economy contracted by 0.7% in the second quarter of 2012.  Find out more on our website.

‘Steady fall’ in sickness absence levels

The number of days lost to sickness absence in the UK has fallen over the past five years, according to a new report.  To find out more, read the article here.

Government sets out new strategy for UK payments

The Government has launched a consultation on the future regulation and governance of the payments industry after the Payments Council failed to find a suitable alternative to cheques.  Find out more on our website.

Businesses enjoy extended Sunday trading hours

Sunday trading laws have been suspended for the duration of the Olympic and Paralympic games, in a bid to boost businesses across England and Wales.  Find out more and read the article on our website.  Bourner Bullock will be open as usual during the Olympic and Paralympic games.  For more information about travelling to our office during this time, visit our Olympics page.

Government plans to cut red tape to revive UK High Streets

The Government has announced plans to cut red tape in a bid to revitalise the UK’s troubled High Streets.  Find out more and read the article here.

UK unemployment falls to 2.58 million

The number of people out of work fell by 65,000 to 2.58 million in the three months to May, latest statistics have shown.  Click here to read the article.

Scrap plans to charge small firms for health and safety inspections, urges FPB

One of the UK’s leading business groups is urging the Government to consider scrapping plans to force small businesses to pay for their own health and safety inspections.  Find out more on our website.

Mixed response to new employment tribunal fees

Plans to charge individuals a fee of up to £1,200 for taking a claim to an employment tribunal have sparked a mixed reaction from trade union and business groups.  Read the article here to find out more.

Government 'flouting one-in, one-out policy on red tape', says BCC

A leading business group has called on the Government to review its policy on deregulation after it found that a number of new regulations are bypassing the so-called ‘one-in, one-out’ policy.  To find out more, read the article here.

Government launches employee ownership drive

The Government has launched a call for evidence on employee ownership, following confirmation that it will be acting to promote the benefits of employee ownership in the private sector.  Find out more on our website.

Thousands more employers to join Real Time Information pilot

More than 1,300 employers are expected to join HMRC’s Real Time Information (RTI) pilot for PAYE between now and September 2012, the tax authority has confirmed.  Find out more and read the article on our website.

Pension auto-enrolment regulations 'could lead to pay freezes'

The new pension auto-enrolment regulations could lead to pay freezes and cuts for employees, a new report suggests. Read the article here to find out more.

Small businesses 'worried about dealing with tax authority'

Small business owners are plagued by worries over dealing with HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC), a new study suggests.  Find out more on our website.

HMRC unveils latest tranche of tax taskforces

HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) has launched its latest tranche of taskforces in an attempt to recoup millions of pounds in unpaid tax.  Find out more on our website.

New business lease aims to 'make life simpler' for small firms

The Government has launched a new business lease which aims to make it easier and less costly for small businesses to move into new premises.  Find out more on our website.

SMEs are 'driving force behind Olympic economic growth'

The Olympic and Paralympic Games look set to boost the UK economy by an estimated £16.5 billion by 2017, according to a new report from the Lloyds Banking Group.  To find out more, read the article here.  Bourner Bullock will be open as usual during the Olympics, click here for details of how travel to our office may be affected during the Games.

New Revenue initiative targets self assessment defaulters

HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) is offering taxpayers who have failed to submit their self assessment tax returns for the 2009/10 tax year or earlier the chance to bring their tax affairs up to date.  To find out more, read the article here.

Exporting on the rise but pace of economic growth 'too slow', says BCC

Small and medium-sized businesses are growing but the pace of activity remains weak, the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) has said.  Find out more and read the article here.

SMEs 'benefit from recession-busting measures'

Despite the challenges posed by the tough economic climate, over a third of SMEs have reaped the benefits of cost-cutting measures introduced in a bid to combat the recession, a new report suggests.  Find out more and read the article here.

Summer 2012 newsletter

Click here to read our latest newsletter. This issue of our newsletter includes advice on how to maximise tax relief on your pension contributions, as well as guidance for those contemplating an employee share scheme.  If you would like to talk to us about any of the issues in this edition of our newsletter, please contact us.  If you would like to receive our newsletter straight into your inbox, click here to sign up.

Banks to redress mis-selling of specialist insurance to small businesses

Four of the UK’s main high street banks will be forced to provide compensation for the mis-selling of interest rate protection products to small businesses, the Financial Services Authority (FSA) has announced.  To find out more, read the full article on our website.

Employers to face fines for auto-enrolment non-compliance

Employers who fail to comply with the new pensions auto-enrolment regulations may be subject to statutory notices, penalties or escalating fines, The Pensions Regulator has warned.  Find out more on our website.

Chancellor postpones 3p fuel duty rise

The Chancellor George Osborne has postponed the 3p a litre fuel duty rise planned for August following pressure from road users’ groups.  Find out more and read the article on our website.

Business group welcomes planned return to O-level style qualifications

The Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) has welcomed Government proposals that would see a scrapping of GCSEs, and a return to a system similar to the former O-level.  To find out more, read the article here.

New IT security guide for small businesses is launched

The Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) has launched a new IT security guide for small and medium-sized businesses.  Find out more and read the article here.

Government announces 'world class' tax breaks for creative industries

HM Treasury has launched a consultation on its plans to introduce tax reliefs for the UK’s creative industries that are among ‘the most generous in the world’.  Find out more and read the article on our website.

Brits should be given pension from birth, report suggests

All British citizens should automatically be given a pension from birth in a bid to tackle the pensions crisis, a leading think-tank has suggested.  To find out more read the article here. 

Online retail set to exceed £77 billion this year

The value of the UK’s online retail market is set to reach £77bn in 2012, representing an increase of 13% on last year’s figures, according to a new report.  Find out more on our website.

Osborne unveils new stimulus packages to boost ailing economy

The Bank of England and the Chancellor of the Exchequer have announced the launch of two new stimulus packages in a bid to kick-start lending to businesses.  Find out more and read the article on our website.

Number of working pensioners hits 1.41 million

The number of pensioners working beyond the state pension age (SPA) climbed to 1.41 million in 2011 – up from the 753,000 recorded in 1993.  Find out more on our website.

Consumers 'misled by supermarket discounts'

Customers are being misled by supermarket discounts, multi-buy offers and other sales tactics, according to the consumer watchdog Which?.  Find out more on our website.

New tax helpline for the bereaved

HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) has launched an enhanced service for individuals who need to discuss a tax matter following bereavement.  Find out more and read the article here.

Young unemployed 'lack skills essential to the job market'

New research has suggested that many young unemployed people do not have the basic skills needed to obtain a regular job.  Find out more and read the article on our website.

Single 30% income tax rate 'needed to boost economic growth'

Introducing a single 30% income tax rate would help to boost the UK's ailing economy, according to a report by economists and company directors.  Find out more and read the article here.  

More than one in five 'has no retirement savings'

More than a fifth of individuals have failed to put by any funds for their retirement, a new study has warned.  Find out more on our website.  If you would like advice or help with your financial planning, please contact us.

Employers 'more confident about hiring' despite economic gloom

Business groups have given mixed reactions to the latest labour market data from the Office for National Statistics, which suggests that employment rose by 105,000 in the three months to March, with unemployment falling by 45,000 on the previous quarter.  Find out more on our website.

Late payment culture 'adding to small business woes'

Small businesses are continuing to feel the pain of the UK’s late payment culture, with the average small firm having £45,000 worth of unpaid invoices at the end of 2011.  Find out more on our website.

Experts highlight 'serious flaws' in child benefit changes

Government plans to reduce child benefit for families where an individual earns more than £50,000 have come under fire from a leading accountancy body.  Find out more on our website.

Employers call for rise in minimum wage for apprentices

The national minimum wage (NMW) for apprentices should be increased in order to improve the image of internships amongst young people, employers have said.  Find out more by reading the full article here.

Three million taxpayers 'receive early refunds'

Up to 3.5 million taxpayers are set to receive tax refunds from HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC), as the annual reconciliation of PAYE for 2011/12 begins.  Find out more and read the article here.  If you would like help with your tax situation or would like help ensuring that your PAYE code is correct, please contact us now.

Revenue unveils new tests to determine employment status

HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) has released a series of tests which are designed to help determine the employment status of workers.  Find out more on our website.

Business groups voice concerns over Queen's Speech

Business groups have expressed concerns over the recent Queen’s Speech, with many arguing that the measures do not go far enough to boost economic growth.  Find out more on our website.

Business group calls on banks to 'help drive SME exports'

The Forum of Private Business (FPB) is urging banks to help drive the SME export market, by relaxing the lending criteria for small firms considering overseas operations.  To read the article click here.  If you would like more information about exporting your business, contact us and request a copy of our Export for growth document, produced in conjunction with UKTI.

Cash machines set to encourage charitable giving

Individuals will soon be able to make charitable donations when using a cash machine, under new plans to encourage philanthropic giving.  Find out more on our website.

Small employers 'could face problems' implementing Real Time Information

A number of organisations have warned that small businesses could struggle to implement the new filing requirements under Real Time Information (RTI), due to poor internet access or a lack of technical knowledge.  Find out more on our website.

Taxpayers 'waiting longer' to speak to HMRC advisers

Taxpayers are being forced to wait longer to speak to an HMRC adviser, with one in four calls to the tax authority’s helpline going unanswered.  Read the article on our website to find out more.

'Four million taxpayers' set to pay top rates

More than four million taxpayers will pay tax at the highest rates this financial year, HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) has predicted.  Find out more on our website.  Contact us now on 020 7240 5821 to find out how we could help you with your tax affairs.

Money transfer errors on the rise, says Financial Ombudsman

Individuals are being advised to take care when moving funds from their bank account, following a rise in the number of complaints relating to money transfers.  Find out more on our website.

Revenue sends 12,000 penalty notices in error

Around 12,000 taxpayers have been sent penalty notice letters by HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) in error, warning them of the new £10 daily fines for failing to file their self assessment tax returns.  Find out more on our website.

Landmark court ruling 'supports forced retirement'

A recent ruling by the UK Supreme Court has suggested that employers can force workers who have reached the statutory retirement age to retire on a number of ‘legitimate grounds’, such as ensuring the future succession of staff.  Find out more on our website.

UK economy slips back into recession

The UK economy has slipped back into recession, according to initial estimates from the Office for National Statistics (ONS).  Find out more and read the article on our website.

Half of workers 'must continue working well beyond pension age'

Almost 50% of workers over the age of 50 will need to work for a further 11 years after reaching state pension age, a new report has warned.  Find out more and read the article here.

Employers offered flexible timescales for pension auto-enrolment

As businesses prepare for the introduction of automatic pension enrolment, the Pensions Regulator has confirmed that employers will be able to bring forward their staging date.  Find out more on our website.

Revenue issues May Day alert for tax returns

HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) is reminding taxpayers who have not yet filed their 2010/11 tax returns online that they must do so before 1 May, or face a series of daily penalties.  Find out more on our website.

Businesses urged to avoid ‘misleading’ trading names

The Office of Fair Trading (OFT) has issued guidance for businesses regarding their choice of trading name, with the aim of preventing firms from choosing names which could mislead customers about their commercial status.  Find out more on our website.

Latest innovation in ‘contactless’ payment technology unveiled

A new mini stick-on credit card has been unveiled as the latest innovation in ‘contactless’ payment technology.  Find out more on our website.

Loose monetary policy penalising pensioners and savers, say MPs

The Bank of England’s quantitative easing policy is penalising pensioners and savers, a committee of MPs has claimed.  Find out more on our website.

Full consultation for controversial charity tax relief changes

The Government will launch a consultation this summer on its controversial plans to cap tax relief on charitable donations.  Find out more on our website.

'One in ten' multi-millionaires paying less than 20% tax rate

Nearly 10% of individuals who earn more than £10 million a year are paying income tax at less than the basic rate of 20%, HM Treasury has revealed.  Find out more on our website.

Employers reminded of annual return deadline

Employers are being urged to file their annual return (P35 and P14s) by 19 May or risk incurring a penalty.  Find out more on our website.

Charities criticise plans to cap tax relief on charitable donations

Plans to restrict tax relief on charitable donations could lead to a fall in philanthropic gifts, according to some of the UK’s leading charities.  Find out more on our website.

Bourner Bullock at the French Chamber of Commerce Event - 4 April 2012

For the first time since becoming members of the French Chamber of Commerce, Bourner Bullock had a stand at the Member to Member Cocktail and Exhibition event on 4 April 2012.  To find out more about the event, please click here.  Bourner Bullock would like to thank everyone at the French Chamber of Commerce in Great Britain and all of the participants who attended, for their work in creating a memorable evening.  Did you enter our prize draw?  Click here to see if you were a lucky winner!

Tougher standards introduced for apprenticeships

New standards will come into force from August 2012, meaning that apprenticeships for all age groups will last for a minimum of 12 months.  Find out more on our website.

Airlines call for review as Air Passenger Duty rises by 8%

Some of the UK’s leading airlines have called on the Government to conduct a review of Air Passenger Duty (APD), following an 8% increase in the tax which came into force on 1 April.  Find out more on our website.

Savers urged to act as ISA deadline approaches

As the end of the 2011/12 tax year approaches, savers are being encouraged to make the most of their tax-free ISA annual allowance.  Find out more to make sure you don't miss out.

Stamp prices set to rise

The cost of a first class stamp is due to rise from 46p to 60p, while second class stamps are going up from 36p to 50p.  Find out more on our website.

Businesses reminded of new VAT filing regime

HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) has issued a reminder to all VAT-registered businesses, regarding forthcoming changes to the system for filing VAT returns.  Find out more on our website.

Pension auto-enrolment thresholds confirmed

As the start date for pension auto-enrolment approaches, the Government has confirmed that the earnings limits for contributions will rise in line with the thresholds for tax and national insurance.  Find out how this will affect you by reading the article here.  If you have any questions about how this will affect your company, please contact us.

Government regulation watchdog 'needs more bite'

The Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) has urged the Government to give the Regulatory Policy Committee (RPC) more powers to protect small businesses against excessive or inappropriate regulation. Find out more and read the article here.

Extra 1.3m people to pay higher rate tax by 2014, says IFS

An extra 1.3 million people on ‘relatively modest salaries’ could be forced to pay tax at the higher rate of 40%, a leading think-tank has claimed.  Find out more on our website.

Budget newsletter

Make sure to read our Budget newsletter and Budget report for all of the latest information from this week's Budget.  Our 2012/13 Tax Card can be downloaded from our website too.  To make sure that you always receive the latest technical updates direct to your inbox, sign up to receive our free monthly eNewsletter on our website.

Budget Day 2012

It's Budget Day! Make sure to follow us on Twitter @BournerBullock for all of the latest info!

Budget set to crack down on stamp duty avoidance

Chancellor George Osborne will use this week’s Budget to crack down on stamp duty avoidance, with the introduction of ‘aggressive’ new measures. Find out more on our website.

Chancellor 'considering cutting 50p tax rate' in forthcoming Budget

Chancellor George Osborne is considering abolishing the 50p top rate of income tax and is said to be discussing the issue with ministers today, ahead of next week’s Budget. Read the article here to find out more.

HMRC launches latest campaign to flush out unpaid tax

Online traders are being urged to settle any unpaid tax bills following the launch of a new campaign by HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC).  Find out more on our website.

Chancellor to launch Budget consultation on 100-year 'super bonds'

Chancellor George Osborne is considering the introduction of new long-term bonds, which would not be repaid for 100 years or more.  Find out more here.

Report calls for equal handling of tax disputes by HMRC

HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) should be even-handed when managing tax disputes, regardless of the size of the company or tax bill involved, according to a group of MPs. Find out more on our website.

Business groups express mixed views on tribunal reforms

Business groups have expressed mixed reactions to plans to reform the tribunal system, following the end of a Government consultation on the issue.  Find out more on our website.

Tax system for pensioners 'should be simplified'

The Office of Tax Simplification (OTS) has called on the Government to make the tax system simpler for pensioners, and has suggested that the taxation of state pensions might end altogether.  Read the article to find out more.

Small businesses encouraged to trade abroad

Small and medium-sized businesses are being urged to consider potential new markets abroad, as part of a Government drive to boost the UK economy.  Find out more and read the article here.

Osborne facing renewed pressure over 50p tax rate

The Chancellor George Osborne is facing renewed pressure to scrap the 50p rate of income tax after businesses accused him of putting 'populist politics before sound economics'.  To find out more, read the article here.

Red tape burden 'to be cut by £4 million'

The business regulatory burden will be reduced by around £4 million between January and June 2012, according to a recent Government report.  Find out more on our website.

Government 'must boost growth' in forthcoming Budget

The British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) has urged the Government to take action to boost UK growth, in next month’s Budget.  Find out more on our website.

Employee 'smartphone tax' is axed

Smartphones such as iPhones, BlackBerry and many android-powered devices will no longer be subject to tax as a 'benefit in kind', HMRC has announced.  Find out more on our website or read the article here.

Businesses offered tax breaks for electric vans

Businesses are being offered tax incentives to purchase electric vans as part of a Government scheme to reduce carbon emissions.  To find out if you could qualify, read the article here.

Changes to redundancy laws 'could increase unemployment'

Plans to reduce workers’ rights to be consulted during instances of collective redundancy risk damaging morale and increasing unemployment, the TUC has warned.  Find out more and read the article here.

Number of late tax return penalties falls by 40%

The number of penalties issued for late tax returns has fallen by around 40%, HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) has revealed.  Find out more and read the article here.

Banks must improve customer services or face 'radical action'

The UK’s banks must take positive action to reform customer services, or risk facing ‘a more radical approach’, the Office of Fair Trading (OFT) has warned.  Find out more on our website.

Businesses offered free training to get mentoring

The Government has launched a new online training tool to encourage experienced business owners to mentor fledgling SMEs.  Find out more and read the article here.

Revenue launches campaign against inaccurate employer returns

HM Revenue & Customs has launched a new campaign aimed at reducing the number of employers who include incorrect or dummy information in their employer returns.  Find out more and read the article here.

Coalition to consider cuts to higher-rate pensions tax relief

Higher-rate tax relief on pension savings could be halved to 20%, under plans reportedly being considered by the Government.  Find out more on our website.

Banks miss targets for small business lending

The UK’s five main banks have missed their Government targets for lending to small businesses, a new report has revealed.  Find out more and read the article here.

New Government drive to boost apprenticeships

The Government has launched a new drive to make apprenticeships a ‘gold standard’ for young people.  Find out more and read the article here.

Tradespeople to be the focus of new tax campaign

Tradespeople will be the focus of a new campaign aimed at flushing out tax evaders, HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) has revealed.  Find out more on our website.

HMRC announces 'fresh approach' to Business Records Checks

HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) will be adopting a ‘fresh approach’ to its Business Records Checks programme, following a recent review of the system.  Find out how this will affect you by reading the article here.

Report predicts rise in vacant shop numbers

The number of vacant properties on Britain's High Streets is likely to rise this year, according to a new report from the Local Data Company (LDC).  Read the article here to find out more.

Revenue receives record number of tax returns

A record 9.45 million self assessment tax returns were filed on time this year, with 7.65 million of these being filed online, HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) has revealed.  Find out more on our website.

'A quarter of small businesses' lack protection against a crisis

One in four business owners are unaware of the kind of insurance cover they should have in place to protect their business in the event of a crisis, a new survey has warned.  Find out more on our website.

Think tank wants further corporation tax cuts in upcoming Budget

The Chancellor George Osborne is being urged to consider further cuts to corporation tax in a bid to boost economic growth.     Find out more and read the article here.

Web economy 'will double by 2016'

The value of the web economy in G20 member countries is set to almost double by 2016, a new report has suggested.  Find out more on our website.

Self assessment deadline 'extended' for two days

Taxpayers who file their self assessment tax return online on 1 or 2 February will not be penalised, HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) has confirmed.  Find out more and read the article here.

Pension auto-enrolment delayed for small firms

Small firms will be given longer to comply with the new pension auto-enrolment rules because of the tough economic climate, the Government has announced.  Find out how this well affect you and read the article here.

Government launches multi-million pound retirement campaign

The Government has launched a multi-million pound media campaign to encourage individuals to save more for their retirement.  Find out more on our website.

"There's a business in everyone", says Cameron

Find out more and read the article on our Facebook page.

Increase in parental leave to be delayed by a year

The planned increase to parental leave will be postponed by one year, the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills (BIS) has confirmed.  To see how this would affect you, read the article here.

Government 'must do more' to boost small business job creation

Some of the UK’s leading business groups are urging the Government to take action to help small businesses to create job opportunities, as recent research suggests that firms are looking to shed further positions.  Find out more on our website.

Online shopping 'surpasses £50bn mark'

Online shopping increased by 14% last year to reach more than £50 billion, a new report has found.  Find out more on our website.

Revenue issues crackdown on post-cessation trade relief

HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) has introduced new legislation to block a scheme involving post-cessation trade relief, with immediate effect.  Read the article here to find out more.

Government urged to 'take action' on Autumn Statement proposals

The Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) is calling on the Government to focus on implementing measures announced in the Autumn Statement, after new research revealed that confidence plummeted amongst small firms at the end of 2011.  Find out more and read the article on our website.

Clegg to launch employee ownership plan

Plans to cut red tape and introduce tax breaks for employee-owned companies are set to be unveiled by the Government.  Find out more on our website.

Government urged not to scrap 'vital' work experience placements

The Forum of Private Business (FPB) has called on the Government to rethink its proposals to remove the statutory requirement for GCSE-level school pupils to complete a minimum of two weeks of work experience, amid fears that the move will impact on the number of pupils who leave school ready to enter the job market.  Find out more and read the article here.

Retirement income expected to fall in 2012

More than £3,000 has been wiped off the value of pension pots in the past four years, according to a new report by Prudential insurance.  Find out more on our website.

Taxpayers warned over fake rebate emails as deadline looms

Taxpayers are being urged not to respond to a series of new tax rebate ‘phishing’ emails being sent by fraudsters, ahead of the 31 January Self Assessment Tax Return deadline.  Find out more on our website.

Government pledges crackdown on 'health and safety culture'

The Government has vowed to remove ‘pointless’ and ‘time-wasting’ health and safety legislation during the course of 2012, which it says has led to a culture of fear amongst businesses.  Find out more on our website.

Business records check programme 'under review'

HMRC is to carry out a review of its business records checks programme after the initiative was criticised by business groups and MPs.  Find out more by reading the article here.

Government urged to act on employment law burden

Ministers are being urged to do more to ease the regulatory burden on micro firms after some business groups criticised the Government's moratorium on employment law.  Find out more on our website.

31 January 2012 marks the deadline for filing the 2011 Self Assessment Tax Return with HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC).

Find out more and read the article on our website.