“The Spring Budget 2017 brought good news for the jobs market, fell in National Apprenticeship Week and focused on clearing the path for 16-19 year olds into work and T-Levels, as well as increased support for ‘returnships’ for those going back into work. However, for the self- employed, the boat was temporarily rocked, following the news of a National Insurance increase. Phillip Hammond’s plan to make the UK the most attractive place to work and grow a business would initially have introduced a tax hike that would make the gap between the employed and self-employed fairer.
“Naturally, that left a sour taste in the mouths of many self-employed workers but, once plans were scrapped, it has lifted the short-lived doom and gloom. The change of heart means avoiding the risk of crushing the entrepreneurial spirit Britain proudly displays as such a hike could deterred future generations from following their dreams and owning their own businesses.
“Self-employment has recently taken on new life, with the rise of the gig economy prompting new legislative rights for those such as Uber drivers to receive the National Minimum Wage and holiday pay. Now that the kerfuffle has been resolved, Britain can continue to evolve its proud history of self-starters and innovation.”
