HARLOW MP Robert Halfon has welcomed a set of reforms to taxes that will help create an environment of opportunity and security for businesses and hard working people.

From today, 6 April 2016, employers won’t have to pay National Insurance contributions for apprentices under 25, saving a business employing an apprentice on the National Minimum Wage over £500 a year.

The employment allowance for businesses and charities is also rising today, from £2,000 to £3,000. This will allow a firm to employ up to four people full time on the new National Living Wage without paying any employer National Insurance contributions.

These measures are in addition to the extension of small business rates relief into 2016/17 and the freezing of fuel duty, which will save families and van businesses £12 every time they fill their tank.

Robert Halfon MP said: “These measures will cut costs for businesses, freeing up funds that can then be used to grow the business and employ more people. At the last election, the Conservatives made a commitment to create 3 million apprenticeships by 2020. These savings for businesses will see more young people receive training and gain skills to get on in life.”

The Harlow MP added: “The Government has also increased the personal tax free allowance from £10,600 to £11,000. This will benefit well over 46,000 Harlow people. The support the Government is giving, through these measures, to Harlow businesses and people clearly prove that Conservatives are on the side of those people working hard to build a secure future for themselves and their families.”