IR35 and Off Payroll Legislation update

Last week the Chancellor announced in his Budget that IR35 Off Payroll Legislation to the private sector in 2020. Since that time we have been considering the announcement and have come to the following conclusion:

We continue to be supportive of the government’s attempts to ensure everyone pays the appropriate amount of tax, and we applaud the Government for giving businesses the extra time necessary to ensure they implement the changes effectively.

SThree plc, and its specialist brand Progressive, urged the Government not to introduce the legislation in April 2019, as was widely expected, and we are extremely glad they took the decision to delay. Businesses now need to use this time wisely to ensure they are properly educated and prepared for the change.

Progressive has been talking to customers and contractors on this topic for the last few months, sharing the experience in the public sector and highlighting how we can assist our private sector clients through this changing landscape. We’ll continue to work with our customers in the private sector and use the extra time available to help them prepare for the anticipated changes in 2020.

Gary Elden, CEO of SThree plc, which owns Progressive said: “I would like to congratulate the HMRC on their decision not to introduce the IR35 Off Payroll Legislation to the private sector in April 2019. While we are supportive of all efforts to ensure people pay the appropriate amount of tax, to have introduced this legislation just after the deadline for the UK to withdraw from the EU, would have put an additional bureaucratic burden on businesses already battling with considerable uncertainty.”

The new timescales give businesses a longer period to properly assess their flexible workforce and Progressive have a huge part to play in that. The value for our customers of working with a large, compliant PLC has never been greater. SThree has the skills, knowledge and experience of helping clients through the public sector implementation and we are looking forward to using this to benefit our private sector clients.

If you would like to know more about how SThree plc and our specialist recruitment brands can help you to navigate the murky waters of the IR35 Off Payroll Legislation and plot a smooth course through the private sector implementation, contact Kellie or Charlie.

International Women in Engineering Day 2022: Improving female representation in engineering

23 Jun 2022

For many women all throughout the world, June 23rd is a significant day. This day, which was created for two purposes, is now known as International Women in Engineering Day. First, to recognize the women who have already chosen to study and work in fields connected to engineering. The second goal is to encourage more girls to pursue engineering-related courses and careers, which is in many respects even more crucial.

Debunking the myths of Contract Recruitment in MENA Job-Seekers Edition

16 Apr 2021

With an increasing number of contracting job opportunities available in the market, perhaps you should consider contract jobs and the gig economy as an alternative career option instead of waiting on for a permanent role.

Top 5 renewable energy projects in the Middle East

17 Feb 2023

The Middle East is an important region for renewable energy, with many projects being developed to meet the increasing demand for clean energy. In this article, we will look at the top 5 renewable energy projects in the Middle East that are making a difference.

5 Tips for Staffing Large-Scale Renewable Energy Projects

01 Feb 2022

Renewable energy projects are often large-scale, but can also be highly complex, with a vast range of tasks. Having the right people in place is crucial to the success of these projects. This article looks at how to plan for large-scale renewable energy projects and how to find the right people.