Osborne's tax-free share plan could fall flat in Brussels

Chancellor George Osborne's proposed tax-free share plan is set to face fierce opposition from European politicians, despite strong support at home.

Osborne's plan is to allow firms to offer staff up to £50,000 of tax-free shares in exchange for giving up rights on working hours and dismissals. However, the scheme is likely to come up against some resistance in Brussels as it disagrees with lawmakers efforts to make European employment rights inviolable, the Telegraph reports. Under the plan, shares would be exempt from capital gains tax at the time of being sold. The plan was described as "brave" and "innovative" by entrepreneurs and small business owners. It is a move to help promote small business growth, as well as give...