Web robot software will help HMRC to pinpoint tax evaders in a series of new campaigns targeting VAT defaulters, private tutors and e-marketplaces, HMRC have announced. The Connect computer system alerts the department to evasion by matching ‘a vast amount of HMRC and third-party data’.
HMRC are offering employers who have utilised Employee Benefit Trusts and similar arrangements the opportunity to resolve outstanding enquiries without recourse to litigation. Adam Craggs considers whether employers should take up this opportunity.
Jonathan Fisher QC identifies lessons for both prosecutors and defenders from the Eastenders Cash & Carry case concerning search warrants and restraint orders where alcohol diversion fraud was suspected
HMRC have published details of the types of data they hold, and a summary of their approach to transparency, with a view to meeting commitments made in an updated Business Plan.
‘Thousands of British clients of HSBC who stashed money in Switzerland are to have their financial affairs probed by the taxman … HMRC has obtained the names and account details of 7,000 HSBC customers from a whistleblower …
HMRC have agreed to delay the start of their ‘single compliance process’ pilot for enquiries across a range of taxes, in order to allow the department to produce detailed guidance for agents, the ICAEW Tax Faculty said.
Jason Collins asks whether the Tribunal in Parissis came to the right conclusion on when a document is within a person’s ‘power’
HMRC announced that they are discussing with ‘interested parties’ an initiative to ‘crack down on VAT rule breakers’. The campaign, to be launched later in the summer, will focus on individuals and businesses who are trading above the VAT threshold but have not yet registered for VAT.
Hartley Foster reviews the Supreme Court decision on the procedural issue
‘Over the next few months the taxman will dine out in some of London’s finest restaurants. Who will pick up the bill, you ask? We will be, as taxpayers.