Monthly Archives: June 2021

Informed v guesswork

First, let’s define these terms. “informed” – a decision or judgement based on an understanding of the facts of the situation. “guesswork” the process or results of estimating or concluding something without sufficient information to be sure of being correct. And between these two extremes varying degrees of certainty will apply. From a business point […]

Outlook for employment

Government continues to be optimistic about the outlook for employment. In a recent press release they said: “Furlough numbers have fallen to their lowest level this year, according to official statistics published 3 June, as the number of people relying on the scheme fell to 3.4 million.” And yet that is still 3.4 million who […]

The 7-year rule

If there is any Inheritance Tax to pay on gifts you make during your lifetime, it is charged at 40% on gifts given in the 3 years before you die. Gifts made 3 to 7 years before your death are taxed on a reducing, sliding scale known as ‘taper relief’. Years between gift and death […]

Package holiday refunds

Package holiday companies have been instructed to respect the refund rights of holidaymakers ahead of the summer period. In a recent press release, this is what the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) said: The CMA has published a further open letter to the sector and also sent it directly to the 100 package travel firms […]

Furlough scheme ends September 2021

There are still a significant number of UK employees that are furloughed. Unfortunately, this scheme is scheduled to end 30 September 2021. Businesses that are struggling to re-establish themselves following the downside effects of repeated lockdown, may be faced with difficult decisions as this deadline approaches. The pundits are expecting a significant rise in the […]