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

Press Releases 7 Jan 2020

FSB responds to the launch of the off-payroll review.

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.”        

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About FSB

As the UK’s largest business support group, FSB is the voice of the UK’s small businesses and the self-employed. Established over 40 years ago to help its members succeed in business, FSB is a non-profit making and non-party political organisation that’s led by its members, for its members. As the UK’s leading business campaigner, FSB is focused on delivering change which supports smaller businesses to grow and succeed.

FSB offers members a wide range of vital business services, including access to finance, business banking, legal advice and support along with a powerful voice in Government. Each year FSB also runs the UK’s Celebrating Small Business Awards. More information is available at www.fsb.org.uk. You can follow us on twitter @fsb_policy and on Instagram @fsb_uk.