MPs are starting to pile pressure on HMRC by launching an inquiry into its effectiveness only weeks after it was scrutinised for a PAYE blunder that ...
The chancellor’s Spending Review called on HMRC to create overall resource savings of 15% through better use of new technology and making savings on its IT contracts.
HMRC was spared any large scale spending cuts in last week’s Review, but the department is expected to make efficiency savings of 25% through enhanced use of new technology.
During tax investigations certain points in the financial statement may be queried with HMRC accountants trained to look out for certain hot spots, including bad debt provisions, related parties, revenue recognition and directors' bonuses.
A new ‘crackdown’ on wealthy tax exiles could be on the cards after a landmark victory for HMRC at the Court of Appeal over its interpretation of residency laws.
"If Mr Cable had his way, all the big banks would be broken up and bonuses would be virtually eliminated - a sure-fire way in my view of guaranteeing an end to the UK’s ability to compete as an international financial centre. Let’s not forget that this is a man who is on record as saying that everyone who works in a bank has an ‘aristocratic lifestyle’ clearly demonstrating his lack of understanding of the sector." A tough line on bankers’ bonuses could make a brain drain of financial talent a distinct possibility, warns Paul Marsden. Read more