Independent chartered accountants, WBV Ltd, has welcomed measures announced in the Chancellor’s Autumn Statement that are set to benefit SMEs and ensure their success, but fears for individuals buying a second home.
SMEs should be able to access finance more easily following news that the government plans for Experian, Equifax and CreditSafe to receive SME credit information from designated banks and provide equal access to this information to all financial providers.
For SMEs looking to take on an apprentice, George Osborne declared that small businesses will continue to receive support. First mentioned in the 2015 Summer Budget, the apprenticeship levy, which will be introduced in April 2017, aims to raise £3bn a year and will be set at 0.5% of the payroll bill.
However, as there will be a £15,000 allowance, only around 2% of UK employers will pay it.
The policy plans to redress the shortfall of skills in the British economy – which the Chancellor said is, “one of the enduring weakness of the British economy” – and create three million apprenticeship positions by 2020.
However, a new stamp duty rate for people buying homes as buy-to-let properties and second homes will be 3% higher than normal stamp duty.
Said Stuart Harries, partner at Neath and Swansea based WBV, “The Autumn Statement has shown that the government sees the importance of SMEs for this country’s economy. By promoting competition for SME credit and encouraging more apprentices to start work, as well as extending the Small Business Rate Relief, the Chancellor has shown that he is committed to supporting the UK’s SMEs.
“The rise in stamp duty for buyers of buy-to-let properties and second homes will affect our clients as there are a great many scenarios that mean individuals could be affected. I would urge anyone that is unsure of their situation to contact me for advice.”
If you would like advice on any of the subjects raised in the Autumn Statement, please contact WBV Ltd.
NOTES TO EDITORS
For more information please contact:
Stuart Harries
WBV Limited
Tel: 01639 635555
Email: stuartharries@wbv.ltd.uk
The Third Floor
Langdon House
Langdon Road
SA1 Swansea Waterfront
Swansea
SA1 8QY
Tel:01792 652108
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Castle Walk
Neath
SA11 3LN
Tel: 01639 635555
WBV Ltd is a member of the prestigious UK200 Group of independent practicing chartered accountants with offices throughout the UK and associates overseas.