Member Engagement
The new face of BIFA in Scotland – Chris Curtin
With great sadness, BIFA brings you news of the death of John Shingleton, a highly esteemed fi gure in shipping and logistics journalism, whose passing in late October has left a profound void in the industry. John was the owner and editor of the highly respected Handy Shipping Guide , which many Members used on a daily basis. A freight forwarder turned journalist, John was not just the helmsman of a freight directory and news source that many relied upon for insights into all modes of freight transport and ancillary services; he was also a beacon of journalistic integrity. His tenacity for uncovering the truth was as renowned as his ability to dissect the complexities of the freight industry, offering clarity to his readers. Throughout his career, John Shingleton distinguished himself with a steadfast commitment to asking the tough questions. He embodied the essence of a journalist who could cut through the noise to reveal the story underneath. His dedication to journalism was matched by a gentlemanly charm and a sharp wit that endeared him to all who knew him. His sense of humour, as much as his professional acumen, will be sorely missed by a community that valued him as a colleague and dear friend. Our sympathies are extended to Jackie, John’s wife; and his children, Danny, Ben and John junior, and their families. OBITUARY John Shingleton
BIFA Members in Scotland were for many years successfully represented by Len Hobbs who retired from the role of BIFA Regional Representative earlier this year. BIFA is now pleased to announce the new face of BIFA in Scotland as Chris Curtin (pictured), BIFA Regional Consultant Representative. Chris’s career in freight forwarding began in 2001 and he now has over 22 years’ experience in Customs and logistics including operational, commercial and compliance activities. In 2011 Chris joined one of the UK’s leading port community system providers and during his time there was liaison to major UK government agencies including HMRC, Border Force and Port Health during the implementation of key programmes such as UCC, CDS and Brexit. Most recently, Chris has taken the role of Head of Customs and Logistics Services for DDC FPO, one of the world’s leading outsourcing organisations. Chris will continue in his role at DDC FPO while representing BIFA in activities north of the border and organising regular regional meetings (see https://bifa.org/events/ for dates) at which he hopes to welcome many BIFA Members and chair
“ Chris is looking forward to working for the Scottish BIFA membership and representing them in key forums, ensuring their views are heard by key decision makers in the logistics environment
lively discussions. Chris is looking forward to working for the Scottish BIFA membership and representing them in key forums, ensuring their views are heard by key decision makers in the logistics environment. Contact Chris by email at c.curtin@bifa.org . To ensure that you are on the mailing list for activities in Scotland, contact bifacomms@bifa.org
Tax advice for small businesses and self-employed
BIFA has been contacted by HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) with a reminder that the deadline for submission of Self- Assessment Tax Returns is 31 January 2024. What is Self-Assessment and why do I need to do it? Self-Assessment is the process used to declare and pay tax owed on untaxed income. If you are employed, then your employer will deduct any tax owed (Income Tax and National Insurance) before they pay you. This is known as PAYE (pay as you earn)
and is also known as being taxed at source. But if you have any additional income, which has not been taxed, you may need to do a tax return. If you do not have an employer deducting your tax or National Insurance, for example, you are self-employed, a business owner or have a side hustle, you may be required to do a self-assessment tax return. HMRC has produced a Self-Assessment Q&A guide that can be accessed by scanning the QR code.
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