Bjorn<STRONG>Bjorn.<STRONG>

We have heard that a business (typically bars/restaurants etc.) can employ someone for a maximum of 200 hours in a year, and not have to pay the normal social/employment costs. The reverse is said to be the case, where an individual can work for a maximum of 200 hours in any one year and no social costs are payable. This is, of course, where someone is not working on the black; we are talking what is said to be all legal and above board. Is this so, or just another piece of fiction?

I wish to achieve what I am told is called "Bumpy Plaster" onto a stone wall. The wall is not attractive enough to leave as is. Bumpy plaster looks as if it has been applied by hand, and the plaster follows the contours of the stone, thus giving a contoured effect. It can be applied by the professional plasterers so I know the term "Bumpy Plaster" is correct, but can find no info on how to DIY it. Bjorn.