Debt Newshttp://www.the-debt-clinic.co.uk/DebtNews/http://www.the-debt-clinic.co.uk/images/logo.gifhttp://www.the-debt-clinic.co.uk/DebtNews/The 2005 Celebrity Big Brother winner has become one of the 15,651 Britons declared bankrupt in the first quarter of 2008.]]>The Office of Fair Trading has warned that companies are targeting IVA-holders with misleading mailings urging debtors to ditch the agreement and opt for bankruptcy.]]>New Insolvency Service figures reveal a rise in the number of company bankruptcies since 2007, although individual insolvencies are gradually falling.]]>The voluntary code of conduct seeks to give debtors more protection under IVAs but experts warn that the agreements are not suitable for everyone.]]>The Insolvency Service has found a huge rise in the number of Welsh householders struggling with debt and turning to bankruptcy or an Individual Voluntary Arrangement.]]>In an attempt to balance inflation affecting food and fuel prices and a slowing economy, the Bank of England’s MPC decided to keep interest rates at 5.25 per cent yesterday.]]>A survey has found that up to £2.3 billion is wasted on unnecessary Christmas presents every year. Over three quarters of the people questioned admitted spending about £50 on gifts that were not used. With over 1 in 5 people spending up to £300 on their friends and family, many could put more money toward their IVAs to help get out of debt.]]>A report by PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP predicts that the credit crunch could lead to even tougher times next year if mortgage interest rates rise and consumers borrow more money as banks reduce support for IVAs, increase charges, and consider reintroducing annual fees for credit cards.]]>HSBC, Halifax, RBS, Natwest, Abbey and other banks have increased the minimum payment for IVAs from 25% to 40% of the outstanding debt.]]>