HLAS

Figures released by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) show that the UK economy grew by 0.7% between January and March. This is higher than the initial estimate of 0.6%, indicating a stronger-than-expected emergence from recession. These figures position the UK as the fastest-growing economy among the G7 in the first quarter of 2024. This quarter's growth is also the highest since 2021, suggesting a positive outlook for the economy in the coming months. Increases in GDP are viewed positively as they usually indicate higher spending, leading to desirable outcomes such as job creation, better pay rises for workers, and [...]

The election results are in, and the Labour Party has won the mandate to form a new parliament. What could this mean for the taxes you pay? Will there be an emergency budget? Labour is expected to outline their initial plans in an 'emergency' budget, likely not before September or October, as the Office of Budget Responsibility (OBR) requires 10 weeks to prepare independent forecasts on the plans. While further details will emerge over the coming weeks, here's a review of what looks likely in the main tax areas based on their manifesto: Income tax changes No increase in income [...]

The Welsh Government is excited to announce a significant milestone in its mission to increase the number of employee-owned businesses in Wales. The number of such businesses has doubled, reaching 74, almost two years ahead of their 2026 target. This initiative not only aims to keep Welsh businesses in Welsh hands but also fosters a sense of ownership and commitment among employees. If you're considering whether employee ownership could be a suitable model for your business, here are some key points to consider: Benefits of Employee Ownership For businesses contemplating a shift to employee ownership, the benefits are numerous: Enhanced [...]

The Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW) has reported that HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) are contacting taxpayers they believe may have overclaimed Business Asset Disposal Relief (BADR). What is Business Asset Disposal Relief (BADR)? BADR, formerly known as entrepreneur’s relief, is a tax relief designed to encourage business owners to sell or dispose of their business assets by offering a reduced rate of capital gains tax. However, there is a lifetime limit on the amount of gains that can qualify for BADR. As of 2024, this limit is £1 million. Why are HMRC writing to taxpayers [...]

Following the Bank of England's decision to maintain the base rate at 5.25%, the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) has voiced concerns about the negative effects on small business growth and investment. FSB National Chair Martin McTague commented on the decision, stating, “Yet again, the MPC has opted to stick instead of twist, a move that was widely predicted but which is no less disappointing for it. The high plateau rates we are currently stuck at are now undermining growth as small firms struggle to access affordable finance to help them expand.” McTague emphasised that although inflation is now back [...]

The Institute of Directors (IoD) has released a consultation document proposing a new voluntary code of conduct for directors. This initiative aims to help directors and business leaders enhance public trust in their business practices as a response to recent corporate scandals like the Post Office case, which have significantly eroded public confidence in business leadership. The code of conduct revolves around six fundamental principles: leading by example, integrity, transparency, accountability, fairness, and responsible business. Given that the code is voluntary and lacks enforcement mechanisms, there are concerns about its effectiveness and the level of adoption it will achieve. The [...]

The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) offers an online tool called 'Exercise in a Box' to help businesses assess their resilience to cyber attacks and practice their responses in a secure environment. This tool provides various exercises that you can perform at your convenience, as many times as needed. These exercises include: A ransomware attack delivered via phishing email Mobile phone theft and response Attacks originating from an unknown Wi-Fi network Insider threats leading to data breaches Compromises through third-party software Threatened leaks of sensitive data Home and remote working scenarios Managing a vulnerability disclosure Additionally, micro-exercises cover topics such [...]

When a holding company sells shares in a subsidiary, any VAT incurred on professional fees is typically unrecoverable because share sales are considered exempt supplies. Recently, a hotel group argued that the sale of a subsidiary was directly linked to financing the completion of a new hotel construction. They contended that VAT on professional fees was a general overhead of their business and should be recoverable as input tax. The Tax Tribunals initially supported this argument, prompting many other groups to file protective claims for VAT recovery based on this precedent. However, the Court of Appeal has now ruled in [...]

If you have children under 12 attending nursery, after-school clubs, playschemes, or with a childminder, or if you're considering summer camps, consider opening a tax-free childcare account. The government boosts your savings in the account by 25%, up to £2,000 per child annually (or more for disabled children). For instance, £8,000 saved is topped up to £10,000. Funds in the account are used to pay registered childcare providers approved by Ofsted. Contributions aren't limited to parents; relatives like uncles, aunts, grandparents, and others can also contribute. The government has observed that many eligible families haven't yet opened accounts, so employers [...]

As noted in the calendar of key tax deadlines, form P11D must be submitted online by 6 July to report benefits provided to employees and directors. Common benefits include company cars, private healthcare, and loans at less than the HMRC official rate of interest of 2.25%. For company cars, it's important to note that an additional taxable benefit may apply if private fuel is provided. However, this additional tax is waived if the private fuel for the tax year 2023/24 is fully reimbursed by the employee before 6 July 2024. It's also worth mentioning that no taxable benefit or entry [...]