Osborne's tax-free share plan could fall flat in Brussels

clock

Chancellor George Osborne's proposed tax-free share plan is set to face fierce opposition from European politicians, despite strong support at home.

Osborne's plan is to allow firms to offer staff up to £50,000 of tax-free shares in exchange for giving up rights on working hours and dismissals. However, the scheme is likely to come up against some resistance in Brussels as it disagrees with lawmakers efforts to make European employment rights inviolable, the Telegraph reports. Under the plan, shares would be exempt from capital gains tax at the time of being sold. The plan was described as "brave" and "innovative" by entrepreneurs and small business owners. It is a move to help promote small business growth, as well as give...

To continue reading this article...

Join Professional Adviser for free

  • Unlimited access to real-time news, industry insights and market intelligence
  • Stay ahead of the curve with spotlights on emerging trends and technologies
  • Receive breaking news stories straight to your inbox in the daily newsletters
  • Make smart business decisions with the latest developments in regulation, investing retirement and protection
  • Members-only access to the editor’s weekly Friday commentary
  • Be the first to hear about our events and awards programmes

Join

 

Already a Professional Adviser member?

Login

More on Economics / Markets

Trump's presidency and tariffs: Advice industry shares views

Trump's presidency and tariffs: Advice industry shares views

‘Stark raving mad’ but ‘great’ for US firms

Isabel Baxter
clock 18 February 2025 • 4 min read
Five-fold surge in advisers buying gilts for clients in 2024

Five-fold surge in advisers buying gilts for clients in 2024

AJ Bell finds 436% increase in gilt purchases on its Investcentre

Isabel Baxter
clock 10 February 2025 • 1 min read
Bank of England cuts interest rates by 25bps to lowest level in 18 months

Bank of England cuts interest rates by 25bps to lowest level in 18 months

First MPC meeting of the year

Sorin Dojan
clock 06 February 2025 • 3 min read