In a significant move to provide clarity and stability for businesses, the government has published its plans for Corporation Tax for the next five years ...
I await further developments as the Corporation Tax consultations commence!
This roadmap, delivered alongside the Autumn Budget, aims to ensure that businesses can operate with confidence in the tax environment. Key aspects of the roadmap confirm that there will be no changes to the main and small profits rates of Corporation Tax.
"The associated thresholds will remain the same!"
This announcement signifies a departure from the often unpredictable shifts in tax policy that can create uncertainty for businesses. The preservation of existing rates also applies to marginal relief, the territorial scope of the Corporation Tax regime, and the rates associated with writing down allowances.
The government has also committed to upholding current reliefs under the merged research and development (R&D) tax relief regime. This is crucial for innovative businesses that rely heavily on R&D investments, as it provides the support necessary to foster growth and drive technological advancements.
As part of the roadmap, the government has highlighted its intentions to consult on several areas that may see changes in the future. Among these considerations is the potential extension of full expensing relief to include assets purchased for onward leasing or hiring.
"This could encourage investment in capital assets and stimulate economic growth!"
Another area of examination is the relief for pre-development costs incurred in renewable energy and major infrastructure projects. Given the global shift towards sustainability, these considerations are timely and reflect the government's commitment to supporting environmentally friendly initiatives.
Additionally, the government's intention to widen the use of advanced clearances for R&D tax relief will streamline business processes and potentially enhance investment in innovative projects. Transfer pricing rules, land remediation relief, and the rules governing cross-border activities are also under review, indicating a comprehensive approach to refining the UK's corporate tax landscape.
"While these proposed consultations signal an openness to reform, I'm not completely convinced!"
I do support the certainty provided by the roadmap, but have a desire for a more holistic approach to the business tax landscape. We must consider how various taxes interact with each other, meaning the government needs to create a more straightforward tax environment that ultimately reduces costs for businesses.
I await further developments as the Corporation Tax consultations commence, and hope for an evolved framework that benefits both businesses and the economy at large.
Until next time ...
ROGER EDDOWES Business Godparent
Would you like to know more?
If anything I've written in this blog post resonates with you and you'd like to discover more about Corporation Tax and the government's proposed reforms, it could be a great idea to call me on 01908 774320 and let's see how I can help.
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Roger trained at Edward Thomas Peirson & Sons in Market Harborough before working at Hartwell & Co, followed by Chancery, as a partner. He started Essendon Accounts and Tax with Helen Beaumont in 2014 as a general practitioner with a hands-on approach.
Roger loves getting his hands dirty, working with emerging, small-to-medium and family businesses to ensure they receive the best possible accountancy advice. Roger utilises an extensive network of business contacts to leverage the best guidance and practical solutions.
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