Tier 1 : Job continuity for ILR in the fifth year

[tier1_ilr]

Hello,

I am due to apply for ILR in March 2010. I have spent time in UK on work permit, HSMP and then on Tier 1 since April 2005. I have been in UK continuously with same employer since April 205. However, I am going to be made redundant next month. Since it is hard to find another job, I am thinking of other options under self-employment.

Can someone help me with :

1) if I start a company of my own, how much will I need to earn by Feb 2010 to apply for ILR? If I make a loss or donot get enough business in worst case scenario, how do I qualify to show economic activity? Will any investment made o employment given work as economic activity?

2) My wife is a contractor 9has limited company) and is still earning. If she employs me as a business development manager, will that count as a proper employment for ILR purposes?

Any legal advice on best option here will help.

Thanks