The Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) has secured changes to the Employment Rights Bill, replacing day-one unfair dismissal claims with a six-month qualifying period. FSB led the campaign throughout “tough” Government negotiations. FSB Policy Chair Tina McKenzie told BBC Radio 5 Live that the shift avoids a “cloud of fear” that would have derailed hiring plans, with FSB spokespeople also reacting across BBC Radio 4, LBC, the Daily Express and The Daily Telegraph.
Tax-raising Budget shows peril of ‘doom loop,’ FSB warns
Chancellor Rachel Reeves delivered her Budget this week, which includes hiking dividend tax and capping National Insurance relief on pension contributions through salary sacrifice. She also announced plans to hit retail, hospitality and leisure firms with bigger business rates bills. Positives include plans to bring in the new jobs guarantee scheme and SME training. FSB’s policy chair, Tina McKenzie, told media, including This is Money, The Times, the Daily Express and The Independent: “Today’s tax-raising Budget shows the peril of a continuing doom loop.”
Fake review warning
FSB backed a National Trading Standards warning to beware of fake reviews, fake ads and AI websites this Black Friday. These scams often lead shoppers to receive nothing, poor-quality, or counterfeit items. “Reporting, detecting and removing fake reviews is therefore critical,” said FSB Policy Chair Tina McKenzie.
FSB Scotland backs contract reforms with a warning
FSB Scotland Director Colin Borland welcomed plans to simplify Scottish contract law during a meeting of the Delegated Powers and Law Reform Committee. He called the reforms “common sense”, but warned legislators not to hand major corporations extra power during disputes with small contractors.
Keeping businesses safe online
The National Cyber Security Centre’s Cyber Action Toolkit offers step-by-step guidance to help small businesses stay secure online. Backed by the Government, the toolkit provides ways to protect their finances and reputations.
Northern Irish SMEs: Apply for funded growth course
Small and medium sized businesses in Northern Ireland can apply for the Help to Grow: Management Course, which is 90 per cent funded by the UK Government. It aims to support managers and leaders to increase long-term growth.
Self-assessment tax deadline fast approaching
HMRC is issuing reminders that the deadline to submit a self-assessment tax return for the 2024 to 2025 tax year is 31 January. More information on who needs to complete a self-assessment tax return and how to do it is available on gov.uk.
New rules on hidden fees: what you need to know
Traders are invited to join a free webinar to learn how to stay compliant as new legal rules that ban hidden fees and unclear pricing take effect. The webinar will take place on 10 December at 3pm.
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