The Government dashed the hopes of freelancers workers and their advisers when they announced that - despite best lobbying efforts - they would go ahead with the controversial off-payroll rules for freelancers in the public sector.
The proposal to make agents and possibly clients responsible for determining the employment status of contractors had met with almost universal condemnation from the sector. It was hoped that the Government would reconsider.
However, the Autumn Statement made it clear that there would be no change of heart and that the Government would press ahead with the clampdown. Furthermore there was a sting in the tail with the additional news that the Government would also be abolishing the five per cent tax-free allowance, originally brought in as an IR35 'sweetener', for those working in the private sector.
There was also concern about another announcement involving changes to the way in which the Flat Rate VAT Scheme operates which will add another layer of complexity for many freelancers.
Together with another proposed look at tax and the self-employed, freelancers were feeling decidedly short of seasonal goodwill when the Chancellor sat down after his first - and last - Autumn Statement.
More information and comment about the Autumn Statement is available in Shout99's Political News section.
********************************
Advertisement - Qdos Contractor
********************************
Advertisement Qdos Contractor offers a wide range of insurance products and support for freelancers and contractors to assist in running their businesses.
Qdos Contractor
****************
Also in Shout99
****************
Shout99 has been providing news and service to the freelancer and contractor community for more than 15 years. You can read our news items; participate in debates and discussion; or ask questions to our panel of experts. There is no subscription or costs involved in joining or participating in our online network of contractors and freelancers. For more news for freelancers, visit http://www.shout99.com
Ask An Expert, our expert panel answers questions from freelancers.
Letters from Freelancers opens up discussions on a number of subjects of interest to freelancers.
The Clubhouse is an area for 'off-topic' discussions.
********
Twitter
********
For the twitters and tweeters among our readers, you can follow Shout99's headline news on Twitter.
************************
Shout99 - Newsletter
************************
Please forward this newsletter to any other freelancer or small businesses who may be interested in news and information related to running a small business. You can subscribe to receive your own free copy of this newsletter on the home page of Shout99.
Susie Hughes, Editor
Newsletter 471
Shout99 - the network for freelancers
|