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Consultations
DWP: Vulnerable claimants will get personalised help with their Universal Credit claim, Ministers announced recently as proposals are released outlining how people will be protected & supported as they move onto the new benefit. A joint network of Jobcentre Plus, local authorities and other local organisations will work together, providing bespoke services to benefit claimants who might need help with their budgeting or getting online.
A Local Support Services Framework, which sets out the principles for that support and calls for views & feedback from potential local partners, has been published by the Department for Work & Pensions and the Local Government Association. Comments & views by 15 March 2013.
FRC: The Financial Reporting Council has confirmed it will adopt the proposed international improvements to the auditing standards on the external auditor using the work of internal audit. In doing so, subject to consulting on the timing of implementation, it will rule out the direct use of internal audit staff as members of audit engagement teams, with the aim of preserving auditor independence. The consultation on timing of implementation closes on 12 April 2013.
WAG: Environment Minister John Griffiths has launched a consultation that looks to ban shooting of both breeds of white-fronted geese that visit Wales. The consultation closes on 19 April 2013 and the proposed ban would come into force on 1 September 2013.
WAG: The Welsh Co-operative & Mutuals Commission – set up to help create more jobs & wealth in the sector – has put out a call for evidence from interested organisations and individuals throughout Wales. In Wales, co-operatives generate more than £1bn in income a year and employ an estimated 7,000 people (2010 figures).
The independent commission set up by Business Minister Edwina Hart is developing a vision & framework to support the growth of the sector & improve services in Wales. The deadline for responses is 19 April 2013 and the Commission anticipates providing a draft report to the Minister in the autumn.
HMT: New rules that will allow government departments to ban companies & individuals which take part in failed tax avoidance schemes from being awarded Government contracts have been unveiled. The rules, which are proposed to come into effect on 1 April 2013, are outlined in draft guidance published for consultation by the Government.
Following their introduction, the rules will also enable departments to include a new clause in contracts that allows them to terminate an agreement if a supplier subsequently breaches the new tax compliance obligations. The supplier will be legally obliged to tell the contracting department if their status changes after the award of the contract. The consultation closes on 28 February 2013.
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