ATT calls for concerted effort over tax

Date: 8th July 2011

Small businesses looking for assistance with their bookkeeping could be among those encouraged by the recent calls of one industry expert.

Andrew Meeson, new president of the Association of Taxation Technicians, has called for HM Revenue & customs (HMRC) to work with tax agents in order to create a more manageable tax environment.

Mr Meeson has accused HMRC of being obsessed with controlling the system, which is having a damaging effect on the department's relations with tax professionals.

As such, the expert has called for harmony and for a "rapprochement" saying this will be in the interests of both groups.

He explained: "The agent community is HMRC's last best hope of keeping the UK tax system on the rails but the Revenue’s obsession with controlling agents … risks nullifying all the good which can come from a closer, more adult rapprochement between HMRC and tax agents.

"The manner in which HMRC relates to tax agents and advisers is becoming increasingly vital to the proper functioning of the Exchequer … the political will seems to be there for a more sensible and productive relationship between the Treasury and the agent community, as it has become obvious to ministers that hastily introduced legislation … is not the way to proceed."

Posted by Emily Smith