Five things clients will call you about this week

Secret tax hideaways Tax is top of the agenda yet again in the Guardian. The paper has uncovered a global network of sham company directors - individuals who put their names to non-existent companies based in obscure tax haven such as the British Virgin Islands and Belize. Some insist they have done nothing improper, and are merely taking advantage of legitimate tax breaks or the opportunity for privacy. Critics say, however, that the islands' systems can be open to abuse because of its lack of transparency. The tough times are here to stay The era of austerity could last until 2018 ...