21st December, 2000 - The year in review

The year in review
Only the fact that we are hoping for even greater success next year stops us labelling 2000 as the year of PCG! From just 5,000 members in January, PCG has not stopped growing, now representing the interests of over 11,000 independent contractors.

It is impossible to list all that has been achieved here, but highlights include:

• The work of the legal team - and winning permission for the JR on all three counts
• Members raising £500,000 in a week to fund the legal challenge.
• Presenting to 3,500 contractors in three weeks for the seminars
• Recruiting Sir John Harvey-Jones as Patron after a successful first conference

Most important have been the on-going Lobbying and Press campaigns. These have not only given contractors a voice, but PCG is clearly now a force to be reckoned with. Our work with powerful groups such as CBI and FSB shows how far we have come this year. And although IR35 is the main focus, we are now seen to be representing contractors on all relevant issues.

We must make mention too of the 'internal' work within PCG. The discussion fora bind the group together and allow fast sharing of information and analysis. The Portal will be re-launched and 'go public' early in the New Year. We are also expecting to re-launch a much-improved Contract Review Service. Kevin Miller is currently updating the essential IR35 manuals as well.

Portal

IR35 Manual

As well as access to retained lawyers, accountants and tax advisors, members are now able to benefit from tax investigation insurance and discounted PI and Medical insurance.

So much has been achieved in the last year that members should be proud of the organisation they have created - and we look forward to more success in 2001.

Sir John Harvey-Jones accepts PCG role
Business guru Sir John Harvey-Jones has agreed to become patron of PCG. Our Press Release and a transcript of Sir John's conference speech are on the site. Also many members are using the association of a high-profile public figure to interest their local press and MP in IR35.

Press Release

PCG Conference

Forum Link (having problems?? have you read this...)

JR Fund contributions
In last weeks newsletter we published the date of the full judicial review hearing as March 13-15, 2001 and asked for further support, particularly from new (recent) members. Thank-you to those who have now contributed. All monies are set aside purely for the IR35 legal fight. If you wish to make a donation (by credit card or cheque)

Legal Fund

PCG Shop
PCG T-shirts and badges are now available. Further details see the notice board:

Forum Link (having problems?? have you read this...)

Updating your details
Please ensure we have a valid email and postal address for you at all times. You can update your record by using the link on the homepage:

Here

Discount PMI scheme
Leslie Smith, Managing Director, Medibroker Online makes the case for members to take advantage of the discounted PMI scheme and points out that Insurance premiums will increase from 1st January 2001 so it is recommended that you apply before the end of this year to avoid rate rises.

Here

Merry Christmas to all.

Susie Hughes (Head of Executive Services)

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