Business taxes

We cover the tax framework for business, simplification for CGT groups, the headline tax rate for small companies, corporation tax, tackling avoidance, the property market, R&D tax credits and venture capital schemes.

Tax framework for business
The need for a principles-based tax system has been highlighted by many observers over many years.

CGT Groups - simplification
HMRC have been consulting with interested parties since 2008 on measures that would make this complex subject area more rational and principled.

Associated companies: the small companies rate of tax
UK anti-avoidance legislation is often extremely widely drafted and rarely changed, even when it is seen to be misdirected, disproportionate or no longer in line with policy.

Tax and Accounting
The imperfect link between tax and accounting at the individual company level has led to opportunities for structuring transactions so as to shift the entire commercial risk to the Exchequer.

Corporation tax rate changes
The rate of CT for small companies did not increase from 21% to 22% in 2009 (as had been announced in 2007) due to the financial state of the economy.

Combating avoidance
No Budget would be complete without some measures to combat avoidance; this year will be no different.

Stimulating the property market

Other possible changes