Clare Armstrong Business launch manager, Support Services Group

“For us and the start-up recruitment ventures that we invest in, there are myriad areas that can be a real burden to them as they grow. From the law on equality and the Agency Workers Regulations, through the confusing minefield of employment law, to the painfully time-consuming VAT application process, the sheer weight of red tape is enough to stifle the entrepreneurial creativity that we are all trying to foster. To pick one piece of red tape is a real challenge, but we would welcome small recruitment ventures being exempt from the CIS [Construction Industry Scheme] rules that can have a detrimental effect on cashflow this would be a good start!”

Geraldine Finn Managing director, MyJobGroup.co.uk

“It has long been known that red tape hampers recruitment and slows up economic growth. At MyJobGroup.co.uk we see firsthand the effects of excessive red tape on the recruitment industry on a day-to-day basis. Whilst it would be tempting to single out one piece of red tape that is hampering our business, it’s more important that we call on the government to change the culture of ’policy for policy’s sake’ in Westminster. Until this culture is changed then we cannot expect red tape to be reduced.”

Christopher Selby Managing director, Condita Select

“I believe there is a valid case for the abolition of National Insurance (NI). For some considerable time now NI contributions have not been wholly allocated to their original benefactor of pensions and benefits. In the case of individuals, the alternative would be to raise income tax, and for companies, raise corporation tax. This would make it possible to dramatically reduce unnecessary administration for companies and the self-employed. Such an approach would result in a much more straightforward system and a ’balancing out’ of the payments, making it altogether more equitable for all concerned.”