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12 months of 2023: May

As we reach the end of the year, our 12 days of Christmas countdown revisits the key events of each month

In May, the government opened an IR35 consultation, research revealed AI was being widely used for admin tasks and the amendments to the controversial strike bill were voted down.

Government opens IR35 consultation

The government published new tax policy proposals and a technical consultation on IR35 as part of Tax Administration and Maintenance Day (TAMD).

Other measures published include a consultation on regulating umbrella companies and a consultation on the introduction of a new criminal offence for promoters of tax avoidance. 

 

Employees comfortable leaning on AI for admin tasks

Most (70%) employees would delegate as much work as possible to AI, according to Microsoft’s global 2023 Work Trend Index Annual Report

There were 33 times as many LinkedIn posts mentioning generative AI and GPT than there were a year ago, with 82% of leaders anticipating employees will need new skills in the AI era. 

Many employees are already comfortable using AI for administrative tasks (76%), analytical work (79%) and creative work (73%). 

 

Strikes bill amendments voted down by MPs

On Monday (22 May) MPs voted down all but one of the amendments made by the House of Lords to the Strikes (Minimum Service Levels) Bill. The bill requires public services to deliver a minimum level of service during industrial action, with unions being sued if they fail to comply. 

Proposed amendments included ensuring a worker would not be dismissed for not complying with a work notice, and introducing the requirement for a consultation to be carried out and reviewed before the government could set minimum service levels. 

Both of these amendments will not be included in the bill.



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