Review of contractor rules must pave way for IR35 delay, say small firms

Responding to this afternoon’s launch of the Treasury’s off-payroll review, Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) National Chairman Mike Cherry said:

“This important review presents an opportunity to reassess our flawed off-payroll legislation.   

“We’ve already heard big corporations say they’ll pull the plug on contractors if planned changes to IR35 go ahead in April.

“We have to remember that we’re in a global competition for talent. We need to make the UK a better, not more restrictive, place to do business.

“At a time when skilled, flexible contractors are needed more than ever by employers, the switch in where responsibility lies for IR35 assessments will cause firms to shut out contractors.  

“The official announcement of a manifesto commitment to review support for the self-employed is very welcome. We look forward to working with the Treasury to ensure that sole traders have access to the finance, connectivity and protections they need to thrive.”      

About FSB
As experts in business, FSB offers members a wide range of vital business services, including advice, financial expertise, support and a powerful voice in Government. Its aim is to help smaller businesses achieve their ambitions. More information is available at www.fsb.org.uk. You can follow us on twitter @fsb_policy.