Nhf responds to 2014 autumn statement

National Hairdressers' Federation president Paul Curry has responded to the 2014 Autumn Statement, which had relatively positive news for small businesses - like salons and barbershops. Paul says: "The chancellor’s announcement of a 'structural' review of business rates will be welcomed by hard-pressed high street hairdressing salons and barber shops. "The NHF has said the current system of rates is unfair and puts many high street businesses at a disadvantage to online retailers without physical premises. "The chancellor's decision to extend small business rate relief for a further year and to increase the rates discount is also very welcome. "We applaud the chancellor's announcement that he will abolish the national insurance 'jobs tax' on apprentices. This will potentially benefit the many, many hairdressers and barbers who already invest in youth training and employment. "Along with the launch of new employer-led training standards for apprenticeships next year, we hope this change will take the sting out of the proposed changes to apprenticeship funding models and encourage salons to continue taking on apprentices. "However, we hope these positive reforms will not be undone by sharp increases in the apprentices’ minimum wage – something the government has indicated it is looking at – and which could bring apprentice recruitment by salons to a grinding halt."