by Saqib Khan | Mar 18, 2025 | Business, General, People
The current UK law on bereavement leave offers no statutory right to paid time off following the death of a close family member. While many employers offer compassionate leave as part of their employment contracts, there’s no legal obligation to do so, and the specifics of such leave (duration, pay, etc.) vary significantly.
Now, a cross-party group of MPs is calling for a significant change: extending paid bereavement leave to include miscarriage.
This blog post explores the current legal landscape, the proposed changes, and what this could mean for UK employers.
The Current Legal Position on Bereavement Leave
As mentioned, there’s no statutory right to paid bereavement leave in the UK. Employees are entitled to time off for dependants in certain emergency situations, such as when a dependant falls ill or dies. However, this is unpaid leave and often limited in duration. Many employers offer compassionate leave, but this is a contractual right, not a statutory one, meaning the terms are determined by individual company policies.
The Campaign for Miscarriage Inclusion
A growing campaign, supported by MPs from various parties, is advocating for a legal entitlement to paid bereavement leave that specifically includes miscarriage. The argument is that the emotional and physical impact of miscarriage can be profound, and that women (and their partners) should be given adequate time to grieve and recover without the added pressure of returning to work prematurely.
This campaign highlights the often-overlooked emotional toll of miscarriage. Many women experience significant grief and trauma following a pregnancy loss, and the lack of formal recognition of this loss can exacerbate the emotional burden.
What This Could Mean for UK Employers
If the proposed changes are implemented, UK employers will need to adapt their policies and procedures. Here are some key implications:
• Statutory Right: Bereavement leave, including for miscarriage, would become a statutory right, meaning all employers would be legally obligated to provide it.
• Policy Review: Employers would need to review and update their existing bereavement leave policies to ensure compliance with the new legislation.
• Pay and Duration: The legislation would likely specify the duration of leave and the level of pay employees are entitled to. This could involve a set number of weeks of paid leave, potentially at statutory sick pay rates or a higher percentage of normal earnings.
• Training and Awareness: HR departments and line managers would need training to understand the new regulations and handle related situations sensitively.
• Potential Challenges: Defining the scope of “miscarriage” for legal purposes may present challenges, particularly in early pregnancy losses. Clear guidelines would be essential.
The Importance of Compassionate Policies
Regardless of whether the proposed legislation is passed, employers should strive to create compassionate and supportive workplaces.
This includes:
• Clear Bereavement Policies: Having clear and accessible bereavement policies that outline the support available to employees.
• Flexible Working: Offering flexible working arrangements to employees who are grieving.
• Employee Assistance Programs: Providing access to employee assistance programs (EAPs) that offer counselling and support services.
• Sensitivity and Understanding: Fostering a culture of sensitivity and understanding towards employees experiencing loss.
Conclusion
The push to include miscarriage in paid bereavement leave represents a significant step towards recognising the emotional impact of pregnancy loss. While the legal landscape is still evolving, employers should be prepared for potential changes and prioritise creating supportive and compassionate workplaces.
by Saqib Khan | Feb 27, 2025 | Business, Conveyancing, General, Landlord and Tenant Law
The recent unexpected interest rate cut by the Bank of England has sent ripples through the financial world, and the UK property market is no exception. Here at KhanMather, we understand that these changes can be confusing, so we’re here to break down what this cut means for homeowners, buyers, and investors.
What Happened?
The Bank of England’s Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) has lowered the base interest rate. This decision is primarily aimed at stimulating economic growth but how does this seemingly macro-economic move affect the bricks and mortar of our homes and investments?
Impact on Mortgages:
• Existing Mortgages: For those on variable rate mortgages, this cut is likely good news. You should see a reduction in your monthly payments, although the exact amount will depend on the terms of your individual mortgage agreement. Contact your lender to understand how the rate cut will affect your specific payments. Fixed-rate mortgage holders won’t see an immediate change, as their rates are locked in for the fixed term. However, when it comes time to remortgage, they may find more competitive rates available.
• New Mortgages: Lower base rates typically translate to lower interest rates offered on new mortgages. This could make borrowing more affordable, potentially increasing demand in the property market. For first-time buyers, this could be a welcome opportunity to get onto the property ladder. However, it’s crucial to remember that affordability assessments still apply, and lenders will carefully scrutinise applications.
Impact on the Housing Market:
• Increased Demand: Lower borrowing costs could stimulate demand for property, potentially leading to increased competition and upward pressure on house prices. This could be particularly noticeable in certain areas where demand already outstrips supply.
• Market Confidence: A rate cut can sometimes signal a lack of confidence in the economy, which could have a dampening effect on market sentiment. However, the primary motivation for this cut suggests that the Bank is acting proactively to support growth, which could ultimately bolster confidence.
• Investment Properties: Lower interest rates can make buy-to-let investments more attractive, as the cost of borrowing is reduced. This could lead to increased activity in the rental market.
What Should You Do?
• Review Your Mortgage: If you’re on a variable rate mortgage, contact your lender to understand how the rate cut will affect your monthly payments. If you’re nearing the end of a fixed-rate term, start researching the best remortgage deals available.
• Consider Your Options: If you’re thinking of buying a property, now might be a good time to explore your mortgage options and get pre-approved. However, don’t rush into any decisions. Carefully assess your financial situation and ensure you can comfortably afford the repayments.
• Seek Professional Advice: Navigating the property market can be complex, especially with changing interest rates. At KhanMather, our team of experienced property law specialists can provide you with expert guidance and support throughout the process. Contact us today for a consultation.
If you wish to discuss the above or require additional information, please contact Hannah on 0161 850 9911.
by Saqib Khan | Dec 17, 2024 | Business, Conveyancing, General, Landlord and Tenant Law
The UK property market has long been a cornerstone of the nation’s wealth. However, 2025 is poised to be a year of significant uncertainty. Economic headwinds, rising interest rates, and the ongoing cost-of-living crisis are all converging to create a volatile and unpredictable landscape.
What Factors are Contributing to the Volatility?
- Rising Interest Rates: The Bank of England has been aggressively raising interest rates to combat inflation. This directly impacts mortgage costs, making home ownership more expensive and potentially reducing demand.
- Cost-of-Living Crisis: Soaring energy bills, food prices, and general inflation are squeezing household budgets. This leaves less disposable income for housing costs, impacting both buyers and renters.
- Economic Uncertainty: The global economic outlook remains uncertain, with the risk of recession looming. This can lead to job losses and decreased consumer confidence, further impacting the housing market.
- Political and Geopolitical Factors: Brexit’s long-term effects continue to unfold, while the ongoing war in Ukraine adds further economic and political instability.
What Can Homeowners and Buyers Expect?
- Price Fluctuations: Expect to see more price fluctuations, with potential for both price drops and unexpected surges in certain areas.
- Increased Competition: With affordability squeezed, competition for desirable properties may remain fierce, even in a cooling market.
- Longer Transaction Times: Increased scrutiny from lenders and potential delays in the conveyancing process could lead to longer transaction times.
- Shifting Market Dynamics: The market may see a shift towards more affordable housing options, such as smaller properties or those further from major cities.
How Can KhanMather Help?
At KhanMather, we understand the complexities of the current market. Our experienced team can provide expert advice on:
- Navigating the complexities of buying and selling in a volatile market.
- Understanding the impact of interest rate rises on your mortgage.
- Exploring alternative financing options.
- Maximising the value of your property.
- Protecting your interests throughout the entire property transaction.
Contact us today on 0161 850 9911 for a free consultation and let us guide you through the challenges of the 2025 property market.
by Allan Phillips | Oct 31, 2024 | Business, Conveyancing, General, Litigation
Following the UK Autumn Budget on 30 October 2024, significant changes to stamp duty have been introduced, impacting landlords, second-home buyers, and potentially reshaping the housing market.
Key Changes to Stamp Duty in the 2024 Budget
1.
Increase in Stamp Duty on Additional Properties
From 31 October 2024, the surcharge on stamp duty for purchasing additional properties (such as buy-to-let investments and second homes) increased by 2 percentage points, raising it to 5%. This change affects the overall stamp duty rates on additional property purchases across different price brackets. For example, homes valued between £250,001 and £925,000 now incur a total stamp duty of 10%, up from 8%. This move primarily targets property investors and second-home buyers to generate revenue while supporting homeownership among first-time buyers.
2.
Impact on First-Time Buyer Threshold
While the first-time buyer relief thresholds remain unchanged, the current stamp duty thresholds introduced under the previous government (no stamp duty on homes valued up to £250,000, or £425,000 for first-time buyers) are set to revert to their previous levels in March 2025. The Labour government has not committed to extending these higher thresholds, which could result in increased tax obligations for all buyers next year if the relief is not renewed.
3.
Revenue and Market Implications
The stamp duty increase on additional properties is expected to generate significant revenue, which the government aims to reinvest in affordable housing. The new policy may reduce competition for first-time buyers, especially in areas with high levels of investment in buy-to-let properties. However, the increased rates could potentially slow down investment in rental properties, impacting rental availability and affordability.
For prospective landlords and buyers of additional properties, understanding the updated tax implications is essential for financial planning. At Khan Mather, we can help navigate these changes and advise on optimal strategies for property investments.
For more details, please contact us directly to discuss how these changes may affect your property decisions.
by Saqib Khan | Oct 31, 2024 | Business, Conveyancing, General, Litigation
At KhanMather, we are committed to helping our clients navigate the complex landscape of financial regulations and compliance. Two terms that often come up in discussions about financial crime are “smurfing” and “structuring”. Understanding these concepts is crucial for businesses of all sizes to ensure they are not inadvertently facilitating illegal activities. In this blog, we will explain what smurfing and structuring are, how they work, and what steps you can take to protect your business.
What is Smurfing?
Smurfing is a money laundering technique that involves breaking down a large sum of money into smaller, less suspicious amounts. These smaller amounts are then deposited into various bank accounts or used to purchase financial instruments, making it difficult for authorities to trace the origin of the funds. The term “smurfing” comes from the analogy to the cartoon characters called Smurfs, who are small and numerous, just like the transactions in this technique.
How Smurfing Works
- Splitting Funds: A large amount of illicit money is divided into smaller sums.
- Multiple Transactions: These smaller amounts are deposited into multiple bank accounts or used to purchase money orders, traveler’s checks, or other negotiable instruments.
- Avoiding Detection: By keeping transactions below the reporting threshold, typically £10,000, the individual avoids triggering automatic reporting to authorities.
What is Structuring?
Structuring is essentially the same as smurfing but is often used in a broader context. While smurfing specifically refers to breaking down deposits, structuring encompasses various methods of breaking down and spreading out transactions to avoid detection.
How Structuring Works
- Deposit Structuring: Similar to smurfing, large deposits are broken into smaller amounts and spread across different accounts.
- Withdrawal Structuring: In some cases, the process is reversed, with large sums being withdrawn in smaller increments.
- Complex Transactions: Structuring can also involve moving money through a series of transactions that make it difficult to trace, such as using shell companies or offshore accounts.
Legal Implications and Penalties
Both smurfing and structuring are illegal under UK law. The Proceeds of Crime Act 2002 (POCA) and the Money Laundering Regulations 2017 set out strict requirements for reporting suspicious activities and maintaining robust anti-money laundering (AML) controls.
Penalties for Involvement
- Fines: Businesses found to be involved in smurfing or structuring can face significant financial penalties.
- Criminal Charges: Individuals may face criminal charges, leading to imprisonment.
- Reputational Damage: Even unintentional involvement in such activities can severely damage a business’s reputation.
Protecting Your Business
To safeguard your business against involvement in smurfing or structuring, it is essential to implement comprehensive AML policies and procedures. Here are some key steps:
- Know Your Customer (KYC): Establish robust KYC processes to verify the identity of your clients and understand their financial activities.
- Transaction Monitoring: Implement systems to monitor and flag unusual or suspicious transactions.
- Staff Training: Regularly train employees on AML regulations and how to recognize suspicious activity.
- Reporting: Ensure that any suspicious activity is reported to the National Crime Agency (NCA) promptly.
Conclusion
Smurfing and structuring pose significant risks to businesses, both legally and reputationally. At KhanMather, we understand the importance of maintaining compliance with financial regulations. Our team of experts is here to provide you with the guidance and support needed to protect your business from financial crime. If you have any concerns or need assistance with AML compliance, please do not hesitate to contact us.
For more information on financial crime prevention and compliance, visit our website or contact our team at KhanMather on 0161 850 9911. We are here to help you navigate the complexities of the legal landscape and safeguard your business.
by Saqib Khan | Feb 13, 2024 | Business, General, Litigation, People
Introduction
In the dynamic landscape of business energy contracts, companies often find themselves grappling with unforeseen challenges, one of which is the presence of hidden commissions. These covert charges, lurking beneath the surface of seemingly transparent agreements, have become a significant concern for businesses seeking fair and cost-effective energy solutions. In this blog post, we shed light on the issue of hidden commission claims in business energy contracts within the UK, exploring the potential avenues for redress and the legal concepts of dilution and rescission.
Understanding Hidden Commissions
Hidden commissions are concealed charges that energy brokers or suppliers may include in business energy contracts, often without the knowledge or consent of the client. These undisclosed fees can significantly inflate the overall cost of energy services, impacting a company’s bottom line. Unscrupulous practices related to hidden commissions have prompted increased scrutiny, leading to a growing number of businesses exploring their options for reclaiming overpaid amounts.
Hidden Commission Claims
Businesses that suspect they may have fallen victim to hidden commissions have the right to pursue a claim against their energy supplier or broker. The first step in this process is often conducting a thorough review of the energy contracts in question. We can assist in identifying any hidden commissions and assessing their impact on the client’s financial obligations.
Dilution and Rescission:
Two legal concepts that may come into play when addressing hidden commission claims are dilution and rescission.
- Dilution: Dilution occurs when hidden commissions dilute the benefits intended for the client in the energy contract. In such cases, the client may not fully realize the expected cost savings or favourable terms initially negotiated. Legal remedies for dilution may involve seeking compensation for the diminished value of the contract or negotiating revised terms to restore the intended benefits.
- Rescission: Rescission is a more drastic measure, involving the cancellation of the contract altogether. If hidden commissions substantially impact the fairness and validity of the agreement, a business may pursue rescission to void the contract and seek restitution for any payments made. Rescission aims to place the parties in the position they would have been in had the contract never existed.
Conclusion
Businesses in the UK navigating the complex terrain of energy contracts must be vigilant against the presence of hidden commissions. Pursuing claims for redress, whether through dilution or rescission, is a legal avenue available to those seeking to rectify the financial harm caused by undisclosed charges. Consulting with one of our legal professionals specializing in energy law is crucial to understanding the intricacies of hidden commission claims and exploring the most effective paths to resolution. By unveiling the veil on hidden commissions, businesses can protect their interests and foster a fair and transparent energy marketplace.
