2012年ACCA考试辅导资料：P2公司报告考官总结3

　　The IFRS for SMEs and full IFRSs are separate and distinct frameworks. Entities that are eligible to apply the IFRS for SMEs，and that choose to do so，must apply that standard in full and cannot chose the most suitable accounting policy from full IFRS or IFRS for SMEs.

　　However，the standard for SMEs is naturally a modified version of the full standard，and not an independently developed set of standards. They are based on recognised concepts and pervasive principles and they will allow easier transition to full IFRS if the SME decides to become a public listed entity. In deciding on the modifications to make to IFRS，the needs of the users have been taken into account，as well as the costs and other burdens imposed upon SMEs by the IFRS. Relaxation of some of the measurement and recognition criteria in IFRS had to be made in order to achieve the reduction in these costs and burdens. Some disclosure requirements are intended to meet the needs of listed entities，or to assist users in making forecasts of the future. Users of financial statements of SMEs often do not make such kinds of forecasts. Small companies pursue different strategies，and their goals are more likely to be survival and stability rather than growth and profit maximisation.

　　The stewardship function is often absent in small companies，with the accounts playing an agency role between the owner-manager and the bank.

　　Where financial statements are prepared using the standard，the basis of presentation note and the auditor's report will refer to compliance with the IFRS for SMEs. This reference may improve access to capital. The standard also contains simplified language and explanations of the standards.

　　The IASB has not set an effective date for the standard because the decision as to whether to adopt the IFRS for SMEs is a matter for each jurisdiction.

　　In the absence of specific guidance on a particular subject. An SME may，but is not required to，consider the requirements and guidance in full IFRSs dealing with similar issues. The IASB has produced full implementation guidance for SMEs.

　　The Accounting Standards Board （ASB）in the UK has set the ambitious target of 1 January 2012 for implementing the new accounting framework for SMEs. With comparatives needed from 1 January 2012，there is little time for businesses to get new systems in place. Businesses will also need to evaluate carefully the tax impact of transitioning to IFRS for SMEs.

　　There will be some important tax issues arising from the change. Tax has been one of the reasons why some SMEs have not switched to IFRS. Since 2005，listed groups in the UK have been required to prepare their consolidated financial statements in accordance with IFRS. Almost all other groups and companies have had a choice to follow IFRS or UK GAAP. From 2012，it seems that the options will change with UK GAAP being replaced by IFRS for SMEs.

　　The IFRS for SMEs is a response to international demand from developed and emerging economies for a rigorous and common set of accounting standards for smaller and medium-sized businesses that is much simpler than full IFRSs. The IFRS for SMEs should provide improved comparability for users of accounts while enhancing the overall confidence in the accounts of SMEs，and reducing the significant costs involved of maintaining standards on a national basis.