From delaying implementation of off-payroll working rules in the private sector to introducing a dedicated visa process for bringing in skilled contractors, the Association of Professional Staffing Companies outlined five policy recommendations in its 2019 manifesto released Monday.

“As the UK heads to the polls to select what may be our third prime minister this year, APSCo is taking the opportunity to share policies we want to influence in 2020 and beyond,” Chief Executive Ann Swain said.

The five main areas of focus in the manifesto include:

1. Rethink changes to off-payroll rules in the private sector. At the least, they should be delayed pending a further impact review and completion of an assessment on employment status. The off-payroll rules are designed to prevent tax avoidance through misclassification of professionals as independent contractors; it is in place in the public sector but not the private sector.
2. Assign flexible employment and engagement policy to a junior minister to assess the impact of proposed legislation and better understand the requirements of self-employed professionals.
3. Undertake a comprehensive review of employment status and consider introducing a new status for independent professionals.
4. Introduce a dedicated visa pathway as part of a future skills-based immigration system, through which highly skilled contractors from overseas can come to the UK.
5. Reform apprenticeship levy funding so monies can be shared to assist the professional development of agency workers and independent professionals — particularly in talent-short STEM sectors.

APSCo has shared its manifesto with senior politicians.

“As the only UK and international trade body dedicated to representing the professional recruitment sector — boasting a membership of approximately 1,000 members in the UK alone — we are in a unique position to advise on how the skilled workforce contributes to economic growth and UK competitiveness,” Swain said.