Manufacturers report skill shortages despite investment in training

Despite manufacturers investing more in training in response to greater demand for more highly skilled employees, many firms are still reporting skills shortages.

Tax avoidance discussion on today’s agenda in Parliament

The issue of tax avoidance will be discussed before Parliament today (Monday, 12 November 2012). Senior leaders from some of the world’s leading consumer and employer brands will give evidence before the Public Accounts Committee on taxing multinationals.

Hays report proposes plan to combat skills issues

A new report by professional recruiting group Hays is proposing a long-term, three-point action plan for policymakers to combat the mismatch of skills availability and demand.

Wilkinson leaves Randstad

Brian Wilkinson has stepped down from the Randstad Executive Board, effective 1 December.

BBC’s new employment status test could backfire, warns contractor community

The BBC’s decision to review the pay arrangements of 804 of its freelancers who are currently paid through their own personal service companies (PSC) by applying a new employment test, is a one-off. It is also unlikely to lead to a flood of other organisations following suit, according to those working in the UK contractors and freelance community.

Derby to receive £40m in jobs boost

On a visit to Derby yesterday, business secretary Vince Cable confirmed that Derby City Council will receive £40m for its programme bid under Round 2 of the Regional Growth Fund (RGF), supporting growth and sustainable employment in the area.

Recruitment agencies facing £25k pensions set-up hit, says Parasol

Research carried out by professional employment organisation Parasol forecasts that agencies employing temporary workers on a PAYE basis could face an initial set-up cost of at least £25,000 as they get to grips with the legislation. According to Parasol, this figure includes three months of senior internal resource, legal advice, director input, time spent engaging with clients and payroll software upgrades.