Businesses in Sussex are being warned that they are running out of time to comply with a new wave of Government legislation.

The 6th of April sees the first Common Commencement Date of 2008, a twice-yearly event when the Government introduces new regulations and makes amendments to existing ones. To help local companies understand the new rules and how they might affect them, Business Link has set up a special section on its website at www.businesslink.gov.uk/southeast/ccd

There are changes expected to employment regulations, tax, consumer credit and to regulations in the following industries and sectors:

• Charities
• Accountancy
• Fisheries
• Construction
• Agriculture
• Catering
• Transport

David Rowland of Business Link said: “Common Commencement Dates, which take place in April and October, are designed to ensure that changes to business regulations are co-ordinated, giving businesses more time to consider and plan for the forthcoming changes.  We urge businesses to consider the changes now so they are better equipped to plan and implement the new requirements effectively.

“It can be difficult to find the time, particularly for small businesses, to keep up with changing legislation and take the necessary action. Business Link provides clear, authoritative guidance to help businesses understand which of the new regulations apply to them and what action they need to take in order to comply.”

Companies wanting to be kept abreast of changing legislation can register at www.businesslink.gov.uk/regulationupdates to receive alerts about any new or changing regulations that directly affect their type of business.

For a summary of the new regulations coming into effect on 6 April, visit www.businesslink.gov.uk/southeast/ccd

For information on how the legislation may affect your business call Business Link on 0845 600 9 006.