This is not the plan for growth we need to ensure the creative sector continues as an economic powerhouse

Responding to the Chancellor’s mini-budget unveiled today, Head of Bectu Philippa Childs said:

“For creative workers struggling to make ends meet, including freelancers and the self-employed, the Government’s announcements today are very worrying. Creative workers and businesses were among the hardest hit by the pandemic, and are now facing a fresh crisis. Our members are battling soaring bills with low pay and long hours, and many continue to suffer from unpredictable and insecure employment.

“They urgently need help with the cost-of-living crisis, not bigger bonuses for bankers and taxes slashed for high earners and corporations, while the rules are tightened for Universal Credit claimants.

“The creative industries are central to the UK’s economic success; this is not the plan for growth we need to ensure the sector continues to be a world-leading economic and cultural powerhouse.

“News of a repeal of IR35 reforms, which has concrete implications for many of our members, will cause further uncertainty and confusion. These off-payroll working rules are incredibly complex and, given they determine employment rights and protections, particularly for precariously employed workers, any reforms should have been consulted on.”