News

July 29, 2026

External examiners mark HMRC’s performance as ‘Poor’

The latest annual report from the Charter Stakeholder Group remains highly critical of HMRC's service performance, with scores either stagnant or deteriorating across most standards. Alongside poor scores for responsiveness and ease of use, the report highlights overwhelmingly negative feedback on Making Tax Digital (MTD).

July 27, 2026

Andy Burnham’s new government, a balancing act

Andy Burnham’s first days as Prime Minister have been marked by a flurry of announcements designed to show that his government intends to move quickly. Presenting himself as a leader focused on easing pressure on households and rebuilding trust in politics, Burnham has begun reshaping government while signalling the priorities that will define his administration.

February 9, 2026

Deadline Approaching for Business Rates Valuation Checks

Enterprises that pay business rates are being encouraged to check their current property valuation and make sure the details held by the Valuation Office Agency (VOA) are correct.

February 5, 2026

Business Confidence Falls Again as Tax Concerns Reach Five‑Year High

The latest Business Confidence Monitor, an Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales survey, shows confidence continuing to fall. Confidence has now fallen for six consecutive quarters and is now at its lowest since the final three months of 2022.

February 4, 2026

VAT Flat Rate Scheme: Could It Work for You?

If you are a small VAT-registered business, how you calculate your VAT could make a real difference to your cash flow and the time you spend keeping records.

February 2, 2026

Business Rates Relief for Pubs and Live Music Venues

It has been announced that eligible pubs and live music venues in England will receive a 15% discount on their business rates bills in 2026/27. Rates bills will then be frozen in real terms for a further two years.

January 29, 2026

Private sector pay growth slows to five-year low

UK wage growth eased to 4.5% between September and November 2025, according to the Office for National Statistics, reflecting a notable slowdown in private sector pay.

January 28, 2026

WorkWell to roll out across England

A national expansion of WorkWell, a health-and-employment support service, is set to take place across England, following a successful pilot that helped more than 25,000 people stay in or return to work.

January 26, 2026

Small Business Britain Launches ‘Small and Mighty Enterprise Programme’ to Support Small Businesses

Small Business Britain is set to roll out its Small and Mighty Enterprise Programme, a six-week online course designed to help sole traders and micro businesses unlock growth opportunities.

January 22, 2026

Getting Ready for Making Tax Digital

With just 10 weeks or so to go until the new tax year, many businesses are preparing for the changes that Making Tax Digital (MTD) will bring. From April, sole traders and landlords with an income of over £50,000 will need to submit quarterly updates to HMRC.