There has been a sharp reaction in the British press to the so-called 'Granny Tax' changes announced in the Budget on 21 March 2012. There are also rumours that the State Pension is to be transferred to the PAYE system next year. We are grateful to local accountancy firm, Charlton Baker Ltd for their comments.

We will be meeting with a Bank Of England representative this Thursday to discuss the economy in general and to hear how the Bank and the banking sector can help business communities in Wiltshire. This is of course a great opportunity to put points forward for debate and we would be delighted to hear from you if you have any specific points or questions in this area. For example is it now easier to obtain funding for your business ?

This is last in our series of VAT articles following the recent budget and as the title suggests it deals with a change to VAT Rules for Hairdressers.

The answer almost certainly is George Osborne.

George Osborne continued his fiscal campaigning by attempting to juggle tax take, Government borrowing and economic growth. Only time will tell how many balls he will continue to keep in the air and for how long.

If you or your organisation offer work experience, including 'placements' and internships, you need to consider whether the individual who will work for you is entitled to the national minimum wage ("NMW").  

It is your responsibility to determine whether or not the individual is a worker for NMW purposes and, if they are, whether an exemption applies to them.

A Belated Happy New Year to you!  To celebrate the New Year Charlton Baker are offering a free 1 one hour consultation to all businesses in the Devizes, Pewsey, Amesbury or Salisbury areas.

Interested?  Read on...

Charlton Baker Ltd recently provided their clients with an updated list of business expenses where the VAT included either cannot be reclaimed, or the claim is restricted. A copy is reproduced below and makes for interesting reading. For instance most business readers will be aware that it is generally not possible to reclaim VAT when you buy a car for your business. We were surprised to discover that there are a number of exceptions!