Tax breaks for self-employed welcome but government has "much more to do"

Responding to measures announced at today’s Autumn Statement, IPSE (the Association of Independent Professionals and the Self-Employed) has welcomed cuts to self-employed National Insurance contributions, despite warning that this may not be enough to win the sector’s favour.

Andy Chamberlain, Director of Policy at IPSE, said: “We’re pleased the Chancellor has recognised the vital contribution of the self-employed sector to the UK economy, backing this with a cut to Class 4 National Insurance.

“The abolition of Class 2 NI is a welcome simplification and will particularly benefit the self-employed on low incomes.

“Whilst it’s a welcome relief to feel there is some support on offer from government, the self-employed sector is still reeling from gaping gaps in support during the pandemic and the implementation of the off-payroll working rules, which have had a devastating impact on hundreds of thousands.

“Today’s announcement is a welcome step in the right direction, but the government still has much more to do to win back the support of the sector.”