Wednesday 29 February 2012

Junior ISAs

The Government has now published the draft regulations for its Junior ISAs. A brief summary is: Junior ISAs will be available from 1 November 2011. Children may have one cash and one stocks and shares Junior ISA at any time, … Continue reading

Source: http://www.pensions-advisory-service.info/junior-isas-7/

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SSAS loans - Five conditions for the principal and associated companies

The rules state;


The maximum loan is 50% of net assets of the scheme at the time of the loan.

The loan is for a maximum period of five years.

The interest rate has to be a minimum of 1% over the average of six high-street bank base rates.


The capital and interest is repayable equally over the period [...]

Source: http://www.pensionpractitioner.com/blog/ssas-loans-conditions-for-principal-and-associated-companies/47/

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Pension Auto-enrolment is coming...

A big shake-up to Pensions provision is coming in the next 1 to 4 years.

Source: http://www.lse.co.uk/blogs/expert/resident-ifa-blog/83cpk9/

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Europe needs solidarity, not new rules

Former TUC and ETUC General Secretary Lord John [...] Source: http://touchstoneblog.org.uk/2012/02/europe-needs-solidarity-not-new-rules/ inheritance tax pension calculator nhs pension pension forecast pensions uk

Source: http://www.can-i-retire.info/europe-needs-solidarity-not-new-rules/

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Lord Glasman turns down Sun on Sunday column

The news broke yesterday that Lord Glasman had agreed to take up a political column on Rupert Murdoch’s new Sun on Sunday newspaper, along with Toby Young. It was a curious decision for the Labour peer given how hard Miliband … Continue reading

Source: http://www.pensionlumpsum.info/lord-glasman-turns-down-sun-on-sunday-column-2/

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SSAS loans ? Five conditions for the principal and associated companies

The rules state; The maximum loan is 50% of net assets of the scheme at the time of the loan. The loan is for a maximum period of five years. The interest rate has to be a minimum of 1% … Continue reading

Source: http://www.inheritancetaxthreshold.info/ssas-loans-five-conditions-for-the-principal-and-associated-companies/

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Moneyfacts shortlist Pension Practitioner.Com for UK Best SSAS Provider 2011

The UK?s No 1 SSAS administrator, Pension Practitioner.Com, have been short-listed for UK Best SSAS Provider 2011 Moneyfacts is regarded as an authoritative independent source trusted by intermediaries, providers and journalists alike for financial products and services. Investment Life & … Continue reading

Source: http://www.pension-calculator.info/moneyfacts-shortlist-pension-practitioner-com-for-uk-best-ssas-provider-2011-4/

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How employee ownership transformed Clansman Dynamics

Dick Philbrick on how Scottish engineering firm Clansman Dynamics became an employee owned enterprise

If you're born, as I was, in a twee Suffolk village with large farms the divide between farmer and very small number of farm workers does not seem unbridgeable. If you then go to work in a Merseyside shipyard the chasm between foreman and plater, let alone between manager and shareholder seems to make commitment and cooperation impossible.

The shipyard agreed that I could go and work on an Israeli kibbutz in a university vacation ? suspect they were pleased to get rid of me! When I returned and wrote a report, as agreed, but in which I compared the industrial relations in the kibbutz factory where I stuffed beans in tins, with those in the shipyard where few worked, I was sacked. Blessed relief and an early lesson that the type of ownership and form of organisation has a large impact on productivity and commitment. Further employment briefly as a civil servant and in engineering companies that struggled to survive convinced me that employee ownership would offer a richer working environment with more chance of success.

John Stuart Mill wrote in 1848 in Political Economy about what we would now call employee ownership. In 1972, when he was Rector of Glasgow University, the shipyard shop steward Jimmy Reid made a powerful speech in which he vividly described the alienation felt by fellow shipyard workers. All fine words that resulted in few actions. The problem was clear for me: how could a real manufacturing and exporting business be started where it was owned by the workers of that business?

I started Clansman Dynamics in 1994 with two other engineers and we had a plan to produce a world-beating range of handling equipment for the forge and foundry industries. The problems of raising capital, the seeming impossibility of getting any customer to buy anything from such a small and unknown company, the determination of competitors to stifle our efforts at birth...all these issues absorbed our energies in a daily struggle to survive. There might not be any business for the employees to own ? survival was our priority.

We slowly became increasingly successful. Three years of losses have been followed by fifteen years of profits. In 2003, while selling a machine to a foundry within the Mondragon Cooperative movement in the Basque country, I came face to face with the raw motivation of employees in an employee-owned business and vowed that I would try again to convert Clansman to employee ownership. We would all meet each month and I would try to explain profits, problems, orders, and answer any questions. I felt I was communicating in an open way, but in reality it was more me talking at them. Another prompt came in one of our monthly sessions when one of the engineers said "Dick you're an old bugger ? what happens to Clansman after you have moved on?" I tried again to discuss employee ownership with the other shareholders but could see no way through the arithmetic. Meanwhile, foreign buyers were approaching me to buy Clansman with schmaltzy noises of millions of pounds, and help with marketing and funding.

I was not interested in years of struggle with 40 others simply resulting in yet another engineering business disappearing across the channel. I resolved to begin the process of buying out what was now just one other shareholder. Clansman had grown organically; new products had been launched each year; 95% of sales were exported and we had been profitable for 15 years. I turned down the offer of a management buyout made by some of the managers ? management buyouts often seem to have a similar 'must- sell-the business-to-realise-the investment ' thrust as for venture capitalists. I hoped that employee ownership would weld the business to Scotland and set it up for the long term. Engineering needs long term development and is not suited to the Anglo-Saxon method of fattening to sell fast. The employee ownership model responds to this.

Finally, in November 2008 John Alexander and David Erdal (read his marvellous book Beyond the Corporation; Humanity Working) from the Baxi Partnership helped me shape the proposition I would make to the employees. Our commercial director Jim McManus was immediately enthusiastic about it. Surely if the 'bean counter' was on board others would be enthusiastic? In my darker moments I could not believe that we could persuade hardened North Lanarkshire engineers to part with hard earned cash for a piece of paper called a share certificate.

Jim was more than on board ? he saw the prospect as a fantastic opportunity to break the mould (albeit in our tiny way). It was a bargain and Scots appreciate them but it was still a huge step for most. Within a few months, he announced the 'cheques were in the drawer' and all he we need is for the bank to 'stop fannying around'.

By December 2009 the deed was done. The employee buyout has completely changed the complexion of our monthly pizza and coke meeting when 40 of us cram into our largest room. Nothing is off limits except knowledge of individual salaries for the moment. Sales are up 50%. The assembly area has been doubled. Employees are slowly buying more shares each month, which is a statement in itself.

Confidence, equality, fairness, security, empowerment??all these intangibles have been given a boost. We are trying to combine the passion of the Italians and the precision of the Germans with the friendliness, energy and commitment that an employee owned business can bring. So far, so very good.

Dick Philbrick is managing director of Clansman, which he started in 1994.

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Source: http://www.guardian.co.uk/social-enterprise-network/2012/feb/29/employee-ownership-transformed-clansman

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Exclusive: Lib Dem peers write to Clegg against HoL reform

The comments by Lord Lee in today’s FT are quite extraordinary. The Lib Dem peer opposes the coalition’s plan to reform the House of Lords to such an extent that he has threatened to quit his role as a Lords … Continue reading

Source: http://www.ukstatepension.info/exclusive-lib-dem-peers-write-to-clegg-against-hol-reform/

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Tuesday 28 February 2012

Japan disaster?s effect on those retiring

I was beavering away yesterday; preparing for an interim Client meeting ? to let him know how my financial planning thoughts had progressed re: his impending retirement. Source: http://www.lse.co.uk/blogs/expert/resident-ifa-blog/4fnaz7/ retirement calculator annuity calculator pensions advisory service can i retire pensions … Continue reading

Source: http://www.statepensionforecast.info/japan-disasters-effect-on-those-retiring-6/

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Living on the Edge: A tale of local government workers

Annual talks take place tomorrow between UNISON, GMB [...] Source: http://touchstoneblog.org.uk/2012/02/living-on-the-edge-a-tale-of-local-government-workers/ annuity inheritance tax pension calculator nhs pension pension forecast Source: http://www.retirementageuk.info/living-on-the-edge-a-tale-of-local-government-workers/ iht annuity rates stakeholder pensions uk retirement drawdown

Source: http://www.pensionlumpsum.info/living-on-the-edge-a-tale-of-local-government-workers-2/

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Lord Ashcroft - tax domicile, the latest instalment (or the wisdom of seeking advice early)

I am pleased to see that Lord Ashcroft follows the advice in Tax Plus blog – readers of my post of 13 July may recall that I mentioned then that careful planning could avoid the worst impacts of a change of tax domicile. The BBC today reports that this is precisely what was done. 

Without expressing an opinion on Lord Ashcroft’s actions, it is clear that the key to successful tax planning is forward planning and we would encourage anyone anticipating a change in circumstances to seek advice sooner rather than later.

Lisa Spearman is a partner at Mercer & Hole. If you would like to discuss the contents of this post with Lisa you can call her on 020 7353 1597.

Source: http://feeds.lexblog.com/~r/MercerHole/TaxPlusBlog/~3/joRgt92plMo/

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NAPF Manchester: Postcard from the edge

The Allen & Overy team (well, D�na Burstow and me) were in Manchester this week for the annual National Association of Pension Funds jamboree.� Very impressive it was too ? the greatest number of delegates, the most exhibitors and probably the highest calibre of speakers we have ever had at the NAPF.� I’ve listened to [...]

Source: http://www.pensionstalk.co.uk/auto-enrolment/napf-manchester-postcard-from-the-edge/

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I?m a Spammer!

I?m privileged to see lse.co.uk?s inner sanctum, so thought I?d help you catch up on a few recent developments and improvements.

Source: http://www.lse.co.uk/blogs/expert/resident-ifa-blog/jxc3bq/

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Do you know who your ?statutory? employers are?

If you are filling out your scheme return from November 2011 you will need to answer the question “who is your statutory employer?”� You might think that this is an old question ? for example, on the previous scheme return … Continue reading

Source: http://www.pension-release-uk.info/do-you-know-who-your-statutory-employers-are/

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FactCheck: Is the coalition protecting the NHS?

"Mr Cameron's right to defend the NHS's achievements in maintaining high standards for waiting times and in other areas, but wrong, in many instances, to claim the credit for the current government."

Source: http://blogs.channel4.com/factcheck/factcheck-is-the-coalition-protecting-the-nhs/9558

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Aging Around the World: Economic and Political Realities

In "Shock of Gray: The Aging of the World’s Population and How it Pits Young Against Old, Child Against Parent, Worker Against Boss, Company Against Rival, and Nation Against Nation," Ted C. Fishman states that "when a society does not have … Continue reading

Source: http://www.can-i-retire.info/aging-around-the-world-economic-and-political-realities-4/

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This medium-termist government needs to think long-term - now

The UK has been put on a credit-rating downgrade watch. This is not surprising, but one wonders whether Moody’s is focusing on the right issues. In particular, Moody’s cited the lack of growth and the troubles in the eurozone as being the main reasons for its decision...

Read the full blog post here

Source: http://www.iea.org.uk/blog/this-medium-termist-government-needs-to-think-long-term-now

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Ian Callum ? IDEA Birmingham bringing creativity and industry together

Source: http://blogs.birminghampost.net/business/2012/02/ian-callum—idea-birmingham-b.html stamp duty avoidance stamp duty reduction stamp duty scheme when do you pay stamp duty stamp duty schemes Source: http://www.pensionscalculator.info/ian-callum-idea-birmingham-bringing-creativity-and-industry-together-2/ find people in face book benaughty facebook face facebook login face book a dating site

Source: http://www.pensiontransferuk.info/ian-callum-idea-birmingham-bringing-creativity-and-industry-together-4/

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Scotland's constitution is not the problem

To hear First Minister Alex Salmond tell it, gaining independence from the U.K. is the most pressing issue facing Scots. But a look at the state of the Scottish economy, with public spending totaling more than 55% of GDP, reveals an unsustainably large public sector...

Read the full blog post here

Source: http://www.iea.org.uk/blog/scotlands-constitution-is-not-the-problem

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Electric Cars: off to a slow start

Source: http://blogs.birminghampost.net/business/2012/02/electric-cars-off-to-a-slow-st.html

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Monday 27 February 2012

A New History For U.S. Pension Funds

As many Americans celebrate the Fourth of July with sparklers and picnics, it is notable that public pension plans in the United States are undergoing radical changes. From their original inception as rewards for civil servants and military personnel, retirement … Continue reading

Source: http://www.nhspension.info/a-new-history-for-u-s-pension-funds-4/

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Licensing Law Update ? January 2010

This briefing note explains some new laws and other changes to look out for. With election fever setting in the government is frantically trying to put its house in order, and also trying to stay one step ahead of the opposition … Continue reading

Source: http://www.statepensionforecast.info/licensing-law-update-january-2010-3/

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Hedge Funds, Private Equity Funds and ERISA Pension Plans

Alternative fund managers and regulators will convene in Washington, D.C. from July 19 through 21, 2011 to talk about pension investing in hedge funds and private equity funds. Over several days, those who present before the ERISA Advisory Council will … Continue reading

Source: http://www.pension-release-uk.info/hedge-funds-private-equity-funds-and-erisa-pension-plans-6/

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UK-Swiss Tax Agreement

There has been a lot of press coverage recently concerning this historic agreement designed to combat offshore tax evasion. This note sets out the main points of the agreement which was formally signed on 6 October and will come into force on 1 January 2013.

The Basics

The agreement will affect individuals with a bank account, trust or company in Switzerland.

Bank accounts open on 31 December 2010 and 31 May 2013 and held by individual UK tax payers will be subject to a one-off levy of between 19% -34% depending on the length of time the assets have been located in Switzerland. This is in lieu of the historic tax liabilities, interest and penalties that may apply. Note that no account is taken of legitimate, non taxable funds in the account.

Withholding tax on income and gains derived from Swiss bank accounts of 48% and 27% respectively will be applied from 2013 onwards. Dividend income will be subject to a 40% withholding tax.

Banks are required to notify customers as to the impact of the agreement on them, their obligations and rights. The levy and withholding tax can be avoided by the taxpayer giving his consent to the disclosure of data to HMRC. 

Non domiciled individuals will need to provide a certificate, produced by a suitable professional, confirming that he has verified his client’s personal tax return to confirm he is non UK domiciled, that he has or intends to claim the remittance basis for the relevant years and that the non-domicile status is not in dispute.

Options for holders of Swiss bank accounts with undeclared funds 

  1. Allow the Swiss bank to deduct the one off levy and pay to the UK authorities anonymously.
  2. Make a disclosure to HMRC and consider whether this should be done through the Liechtenstein Disclosure Facility (LDF).
  3. Close the account and move the funds to another jurisdiction. Note however that banks have agreed not to assist individuals in this process and will not, as far as we understand, re-book an existing UK customer’s account through, for example, their Hong Kong branch or subsidiary.
    This is a high risk approach for the following reasons:
    1. Similar agreements may be signed with other jurisdictions in the future.
    2. Significant resources are being channelled into tackling tax evasion; higher penalties, up to 200%, as well as a higher tax bill can be expected than if taxpayers make a voluntary disclosure or use the Swiss or Liechtenstein arrangement.
    3. Criminal prosecution is a greater possibility
    4. If HMRC make contact before the Swiss deal comes into force or a voluntary disclosure is made then the taxpayer will face an intrusive investigation into his affairs as well as the associated professional costs.

Comparison of Swiss Agreement and Liechtenstein Disclosure Facility (LDF)

There are some important differences between the Swiss Agreement and a disclosure under the LDF.

The Swiss agreement is effectively a pragmatic way of raising revenue for the Treasury whereas the LDF is a way for the taxpayer to regularise their worldwide UK tax affairs. Under the LDF they would be required to make a full disclosure of worldwide assets whereas the Swiss Agreement will only cover the particular account in question. Under the Swiss Agreement the taxpayer will maintain anonymity as far as HMRC are concerned.

Under the LDF HMRC are precluded from looking back beyond 1999 but all liabilities are effectively wiped out. The rate is fixed at previous tax liabilities, interest and a 10% penalty. Under the Swiss Agreement whilst account details will only have to be disclosed from 2002 onwards, pre 2002 accounts will be ‘fair game’ for an HMRC investigation. In addition it is important to note that clearance for the past only applies to funds subject to the levy. Funds withdrawn or used to acquire other assets may still be liable to UK tax.

The LDF offers a guarantee from criminal prosecution whereas the Swiss deal merely says that anyone who fully cooperates with the tax authorities are ‘highly unlikely’ to face prosecution.

Other Points of Interest

 Switzerland will collect data on the destination of funds withdrawn from the country and will pass on this information to the UK in relation to the top 10 jurisdictions to which funds have been transferred. As far as we are aware only totals will be revealed and not the names of individual account holders.

HMRC will be entitled to request information from the authorities for individuals who they suspect of holding a Swiss bank account. They will not need to name the bank but will need to provide the name of the person and the grounds for the request; so called ‘fishing expeditions’ should therefore be ruled out. The number of requests will be limited to an initial maximum of 500 per year.

 Conclusion

 Clients with Swiss bank accounts are likely to receive correspondence from the Swiss banks notifying them of the agreement and their obligations and rights. It is important that such correspondence is not ignored as the default position will be the imposition of the levy and withholding taxes going forward.

Anyone needing clarification on their UK tax position and/or their rights and obligations under the agreement should seek advice as soon as possible.

Lisa Spearman is a tax adviser and a partner at Mercer & Hole. The views given in this blog are personal to the author, if you would like to discuss the contents of this post with Lisa you can call her on 020 7353 1597.

Email Lisa Spearman

Source: http://feeds.lexblog.com/~r/MercerHole/TaxPlusBlog/~3/35-l9JCvRPc/

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Junior ISAs

The Government has now published the draft regulations for its Junior ISAs. A brief summary is:

  • Junior ISAs will be available from 1 November 2011.
  • Children may have one cash and one stocks and shares Junior ISA at any time, with an overall contribution limit of £3,000 per annum.
  • Junior ISAs will be offered by high-street banks, building societies, etc.
  • Funds will be ‘locked in’ until the child is 18.
     

Source: http://feeds.lexblog.com/~r/MercerHole/TaxPlusBlog/~3/ghMjknI7MKs/

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Counterparty Credit Risk Guidance From Bank Regulators

On June 29, 2011, the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency, Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System and the Office of Thrift Supervision issued its latest thinking on derivatives trading by banks. "Interagency Supervisory Guidance on Counterparty Credit Risk Management" considers the role of senior management, methods to measure risk, ways to manage risk and model validation.

Given the increasing number of institutional investors that deploy derivatives - directly or indirectly via third party organizations - for return enhancement or risk minimization purposes, this twenty-six page document is worth a read. Anything that impacts the costs of major derivatives dealers is likely to have a trickle down impact on pensions, endowments, foundations and family offices.

The list below offers a preview of takeaways from the regulators' perspective.

  • Assessment of counterparty credit risk models should reflect their "conceptual soundness," along with "an ongoing monitoring process that includes verification of processes and benchmarking; and an outcomes-analysis process that includes backtesting."
  • Develop a comprehensive process surrounding bank monitoring of collateral.
  • Discuss how to control "wrong-way risk" which occurs "when the exposure to a particular counterparty is positively correlated with the probability of default of the counterparty itself."
  • Banks need to regularly measure the "largest counterparty-level impacts across portfolios, material concentrations within segments of a portfolio (such as industries or regions), and relevant portfolio-and counterparty-specific trends."

Pension fund investment committee members can use the guide to draft or add to an existing questionnaire for interviews they conduct with their asset managers, banks and consultants.

Source: http://feeds.lexblog.com/~r/PensionRiskMatters/~3/zH-0vy3DU5o/

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Opposition loses health bill risk vote

Lansley says publication of risk register would 'undermine ability to be frank'

Source: http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/BMADailyFeed/~3/DxvxfMfnkUU/BSKN-8RVGJW

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Do we really need management?

Source: http://blogs.birminghampost.net/business/2012/02/do-we-really-need-management.html

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Pension Auto-enrolment is coming?

A big shake-up to Pensions provision is coming in the next 1 to 4 years. Source: http://www.lse.co.uk/blogs/expert/resident-ifa-blog/83cpk9/ pensions calculator ill health retirement the pension service pension release annuity

Source: http://www.pensionsuk.info/pension-auto-enrolment-is-coming-2/

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Mental health campaign goals met

Student support groups set up at 25 universities

Source: http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/BMADailyFeed/~3/PKztkbf_S8U/BSKN-8QZG2T

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Beckmann and Martin pension rights ? a recap

So-called Beckmann and Martin pension rights are still a bit of a nuisance on transactions when a business is sold out from a company.� On the sale, the employees and their rights transfer under the TUPE regime.� Normally pension rights don’t get dragged along, but the Beckmann and Martin cases suggested that employees’ rights to [...]

Source: http://www.pensionstalk.co.uk/ma-issues/beckmann-and-martin-pension-rights-%e2%80%93-a-recap/

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I?m a Spammer!

I?m privileged to see lse.co.uk?s inner sanctum, so thought I?d help you catch up on a few recent developments and improvements. Source: http://www.lse.co.uk/blogs/expert/resident-ifa-blog/jxc3bq/ ill health retirement the pension service pension release annuity inheritance tax Source: http://www.pensionlumpsum.info/im-a-spammer-6/ pension calculator nhs pension … Continue reading

Source: http://www.pensiontransferuk.info/im-a-spammer-3/

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Sunday 26 February 2012

FactCheck: Is the coalition protecting the NHS?

"Mr Cameron's right to defend the NHS's achievements in maintaining high standards for waiting times and in other areas, but wrong, in many instances, to claim the credit for the current government."

Source: http://blogs.channel4.com/factcheck/factcheck-is-the-coalition-protecting-the-nhs/9558

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Where?s your winter retreat?

With summer coming to a close, where are you going to be jetsetting off to this winter to get away from what is already being named a “brutal” winter??? With snow forecast as early as next month (October) I can … Continue reading

Source: http://www.pensionsuk.info/wheres-your-winter-retreat-4/

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And the winner is?no one

Once again Europe has spoken and this time it’s the women who will pay – well sort of. The latest diktat from the ECJ has declared that it will no longer be legal for insurance companies to use sex based factors when pricing products whether that be car insurance, life insurance or (and this is [...]

Source: http://www.pensionlawyerblog.com/pensions-ec

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US relief for the remittance basis charge confirmed

It is reported that the remittance basis charge is accepted as being relievable against US tax. Since its introduction in 2008, it was unclear whether the remittance basis charge of £30,000 was creditable in the US meaning that many US … Continue reading

Source: http://www.pensionsuk.info/us-relief-for-the-remittance-basis-charge-confirmed-8/

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Inter Payroll unveil new changes

British payroll providers Inter Payroll have today announced a line-up of changes which they believe will help them maintain their position as one of the leaders in the UK for payroll services. Inter Payroll are well known for the high … Continue reading

Source: http://www.can-i-retire.info/inter-payroll-unveil-new-changes/

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FactCheck: More midwives, but more babies

"It makes a huge difference to patients that there are now more midwives working in the NHS than ever before", said the Health Minister today. There might be record numbers of midwives, but the birth rate is soaring - so how much of a difference can it make? FactCheck investigates.

Source: http://blogs.channel4.com/factcheck/factcheck-more-midwives-but-more-babies/9536

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Income Protection and tax-incentives (or not)?

FacebookTwitterDeliciousDiggStumbleUponAdd to favoritesEmailRSS Delegates at our recent event held�at the London Transport Museum will recall that the case for providing employees with Income Protection is really very�compelling.� We will be�issuing the combined results (both morning and afternoon sessions) of the�delegate�voting�as a press release … Continue reading

Source: http://www.jelfgroup.com/blog/2012/02/income-protection-and-tax-incentives-or-not/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=income-protection-and-tax-incentives-or-not

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Today's mystery bird for you to identify | @GrrlScientist

This African mystery bird's unusual name is in honour of a trait that is unusual for its taxonomic family

Mystery Bird photographed in Kruger National Park, Limpopo and Mpumalanga provinces, South Africa. [I will identify this species for you in 48 hours]

Image: Rob Buitenwerf, 22 February 2012 (with permission, for GrrlScientist/Guardian use only) [velociraptorise].
Canon Powershot S5 IS

Question: This African mystery bird's unusual name is in honour of a trait that is unusual for its taxonomic family. What trait is that? Can you identify this bird's taxonomic family and species?

The Rules:

1. Keep in mind that people live in zillions of different time zones, and some people are following on their smart phones. So let everyone play the game. Don't spoil it for everyone else by identifying the bird in the first 24 to 36 hours.
2. If you know the mystery bird's identity, answer the accompanying questions and provide subtle ID hints so others know that you know. Your hints may be helpful clues for less experienced players. Keep in mind that some hints may read like "inside jokes" and thus, may discourage others from participating.
3. Describe the key field marks that distinguish this species from any similar ones.
4. Comments that spoil others' enjoyment may be deleted.

The Game:

1. This is meant to be a learning experience where together we learn a few things about birds and about the process of identifying them (and maybe about ourselves, too).
2. Each mystery bird is usually accompanied by a question or two. These questions can be useful for identifying the pictured species, but may instead be used to illustrate an interesting aspect of avian biology, behaviour or evolution, or may be intended to generate conversation on other topics, such as conservation or ethics.
3. Thoughtful comments will add to everyone's enjoyment, and will keep the suspense going until the next teaser is published. Interesting snippets may add to the knowledge of all.
4. Each bird species will be demystified approximately 48 hours after publication.

You are invited to review all of the daily mystery birds by going to their dedicated graphic index page.

If you have bird images, video or mp3 files that you'd like to share with a large and (mostly) appreciative international audience here at The Guardian, feel free to contact me to learn more.

.. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. ..

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guardian.co.uk © 2012 Guardian News and Media Limited or its affiliated companies. All rights reserved. | Use of this content is subject to our Terms & Conditions | More Feeds

Source: http://www.guardian.co.uk/science/grrlscientist/2012/feb/25/7

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The sky is falling down

Well, it certainly seems that way.

Source: http://www.lse.co.uk/blogs/expert/resident-ifa-blog/md5660/

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Britain to become a nation of renters? but wait!

Having just seen a news article stating that Britain is to become a nation of renters, I felt that it contradicted slightly the other news I heard today which was that a leading mortgage provider are now offering a 100% LTV mortgage! Yes, that?s right, it?s back! Arguably the thing which started the whole credit [...]

Source: http://www.freshinvest.co.uk/blog/property-investment/britain-nation-renters%e2%80%a6-wait/

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Get with the Rhythm?

After a bit of a break to recharge my pension batteries (lounging on a beach works wonders!!) normal service is resumed with a report of recent happenings in the pensionsphere.
I have just got back from a fantastic conference organised by Mallowstreet which was frankly unlike any pension conference I’ve ever been to. I loved the [...]

Source: http://www.pensionlawyerblog.com/get-with-the-rhythm

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10 days enough for residence?

There has been a certain amount of press coverage in recent days indicating that HMRC will argue someone is UK resident if they work for 10 days here. This is misleading and unhelpful in trying to understand the rules. What the Revenue have said is that in assessing whether an individual is on a full time contract of employment abroad they will not challenge the position where UK days are 10 or fewer. Where UK days are more than 10 HMRC may check to satisfy themselves that there is a genuine contract of employment for full time work abroad and that residence or otherwise will depend on the circumstances of the case.

Roll on the statutory residence test and hopefully we can avoid this sort of misunderstanding going further. 

Lisa Spearman is a partner at Mercer & Hole. If you would like to discuss the contents of this post with Lisa you can call her on 020 7353 1597.

Source: http://feeds.lexblog.com/~r/MercerHole/TaxPlusBlog/~3/3erTU1oZbzs/

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Saturday 25 February 2012

?Tax is back? says EU Commissioner

Well, he�is the EU tax Commissioner, so I [...]

Source: http://touchstoneblog.org.uk/2012/02/tax-is-back-says-eu-commissioner/

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Pensions and Washington Mutual Class Action Lawsuit

According to "Washington Mutual settles class-action suit for $208.5 million," Associated Press, July 1, 2011, pension plans that include the Ontario Teachers’ Pension Plan Board (as lead) will benefit as shareholders of the failed bank (if and once the Bankruptcy Court … Continue reading

Source: http://www.can-i-retire.info/pensions-and-washington-mutual-class-action-lawsuit-3/

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Living on the Edge: A tale of local government workers

Annual talks take place tomorrow between UNISON, GMB [...] Source: http://touchstoneblog.org.uk/2012/02/living-on-the-edge-a-tale-of-local-government-workers/ stamp duty bands stamp duty avoidance stamp duty reduction stamp duty scheme when do you pay stamp duty Source: http://www.pensionsuk.info/living-on-the-edge-a-tale-of-local-government-workers/ the pension service pension release annuity inheritance tax pension … Continue reading

Source: http://www.pensiontransferuk.info/living-on-the-edge-a-tale-of-local-government-workers/

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First Minister of Wales backs Robin Hood Tax

Wales’ First Minister, Carwyn Jones AM became the [...]

Source: http://touchstoneblog.org.uk/2012/02/first-minister-of-wales-backs-robin-hood-tax/

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Westfield aids local property market

Winkworth has released its Westfield report, the first of its impact analyses which look at how specific projects affect the local residential property market. The report shows how the opening of the Westfield shopping centre in Shepherd?s Bush in October … Continue reading

Source: http://www.ukstatepension.info/westfield-aids-local-property-market-2/

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A cheer for honest nimbyism

‘And goodbye to one of our lovely Bumblebee health-food shops in north London, finally defeated by another greedy developer who wants to turn it into flats.’

What I appreciate about this statement (by Michele Hanson in The Guardian) is its honesty...

Read the full blog post here

Source: http://www.iea.org.uk/blog/a-cheer-for-honest-nimbyism

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How boring!

I am off to see a Client tomorrow morning, to review their Investments. They are certainly not awkward, but not particularly ?engaged? all the same.

Source: http://www.lse.co.uk/blogs/expert/resident-ifa-blog/wk8w6m/

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Jelf Employee Benefits win three awards?

FacebookTwitterDeliciousDiggStumbleUponAdd to favoritesEmailRSS We are delighted to announce that Jelf Employee Benefits won no less than three awards at the prestigious Corporate Adviser Awards on Wednesday evening this week. The gongs we collected on this occasion were: Healthcare Adviser of the Year Group … Continue reading

Source: http://www.jelfgroup.com/blog/2012/02/jelf-employee-benefits-win-three-awards/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=jelf-employee-benefits-win-three-awards

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Liverpool's year-long celebrations for Beatles' anniversary

A series of events are planned in the city in 2012 to mark the 50th birthday of the band's formation

The Beatles will be remembered in a year-long season of music, film and verse in their home city of Liverpool.

The 12-month programme of cultural events will be focus on the 50th anniversary of the birth of the most enduringly popular music band, Jade Wright, of the Liverpool Echo, reported on Friday.

This year marks the half-century that has passed since the formation of the Beatles. In June, The Two of Us: The Lennon and McCartney Songbook will see the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra perform the band's songs over two evenings.

Michael Eakin, chief executive of the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra, said: "We're delighted to be playing our part in this special Beatles anniversary, paying our tribute to the four Liverpool lads whose music continues to have an extraordinary impact around the world."

At the beginning of December, there will be a Beatles weekend at the Liverpool Philharmonic Hall.

On 18 August, Hulme Hall in Port Sunlight, will host a musical event celebrating the date that Ringo Starr made his Beatles debut. The next day, 19 August, marks the 50-year anniversary of the band's first gig at The Cavern.

International Beatles Week will commemorate the anniversary with bands and fans from all over the world arriving in Liverpool for gigs, guest speakers and the Beatles convention leading up to the 20th anniversary of the Mathew Street festival ? the annual celebration of all things Beatles.

To celebrate the release of The Beatles' first single, a Love Me Do Weekend will take place at the Albert Dock over the weekend of 5 October to 7 October.

The leader of Liverpool city council, Joe Anderson, described it as "a hugely significant year in the history of the Beatles." He said its one that Liverpool couldn't let pass by without a large celebration.

He said the council never underestimates the power of The Beatles to attract visitors to the city, which will bring a much-needed boost to the local economy.


guardian.co.uk © 2012 Guardian News and Media Limited or its affiliated companies. All rights reserved. | Use of this content is subject to our Terms & Conditions | More Feeds

Source: http://www.guardian.co.uk/uk/the-northerner/2012/feb/24/beatles-anniversary-liverpool

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Is ?militant secularisation? taking hold in Britain?

Numerous polls and surveys suggest that the number of people who hold religious beliefs in general, and attend Christian church services in particular, is falling.

Source: http://blogs.channel4.com/factcheck/factcheck-is-militant-secularisation-taking-hold-in-britain/9480

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Returns of benefits and expenses - Forms P11D

HMRC has announced that the 2010/11 forms P11D, that are due for submission by 5 July, cannot be posted/delivered to your local office. Instead all paper forms have to be sent to a dedicated post room at:

HMRC NIC&EO
P11D Support Team
Tynemouth House
Room BP8019
Benton Park View
Longbenton
Newcastle Upon Tyne
NE98 1ZZ

You will need to make sure forms are completed and posted to arrive in Newcastle by the submission deadline. Penalties are likely to be charged on late returns.

Cathy Corns is a tax adviser and a partner at Mercer & Hole. The views given in this blog are personal to the author, if you would like to discuss the contents of this post with Cathy you can call her on 01908 605552.

Source: http://feeds.lexblog.com/~r/MercerHole/TaxPlusBlog/~3/m4rKm0oABD4/

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Mapping the dangers of competitive harm

Who among us hasn’t wiled away a lazy hour with travel fantasies, courtesy of Google Maps? Not the French, apparently, who seem to have little appreciation for Google Maps’ indulgence of wanderlust.

Read the full blog post here

Source: http://www.iea.org.uk/blog/mapping-the-dangers-of-competitive-harm

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Friday 24 February 2012

Income Replacement Insurance (PHI)

Today, I could be mostly stating the obvious! (Credit to The Fast Show)

Source: http://www.lse.co.uk/blogs/expert/resident-ifa-blog/2hvohd/

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GPs! Have you completed your estimate of pensionable pay form?

Please note the importance of the form that every GP practice and every alternative provider of medical services (APMS) practice/centre (that is an employing authority) is legally required to complete and send to their commissioning PCT/LHB prior to the start of the 2011/12 … Continue reading

Source: http://www.annuitycalculatoruk.info/gps-have-you-completed-your-estimate-of-pensionable-pay-form-3/

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You can?t tell me I?m part of the Union

We’ve had some meat on the bones of the Hutton proposals today with a statement from Treasury Minister Danny Alexander too. You can read my earlier thoughts on Hutton in my blog “Hutton Speaks…and Makes Sense” below. But despite this, the knee jerk reaction of the Public Sector unions is, to paraphrase the late Miriam [...]

Source: http://www.pensionlawyerblog.com/pensions-unions

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And the winner is?no one

Once again Europe has spoken and this time it’s the women who will pay – well sort of. The latest diktat from the ECJ has declared that it will no longer be legal for insurance companies to use sex based factors when pricing products whether that be car insurance, life insurance or (and this is [...]

Source: http://www.pensionlawyerblog.com/pensions-ec

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The EU shows the risks of selective intervention

Why didn’t Europe's builders stop with the single market? Read the full blog post here Source: http://www.iea.org.uk/blog/the-eu-shows-the-risks-of-selective-intervention applications on facebook dating website make a face book face book application application face book

Source: http://www.inheritancetaxthreshold.info/the-eu-shows-the-risks-of-selective-intervention-3/

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