HMRC launches south-east 'tax dodger' taskforce

Date: 8th November 2011

Small business owners operating in the south-east are to set to come under intense scrutiny from HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC).

The department has identified the affluent region as a destination with an increasing tax problem.

According to HMRC officials, businesses and individuals operating in the south-east have proven themselves to be more likely to avoid submitting the relevant tax returns or paying the right amount of tax.

This could encourage a number of business owners to seek the assistance of a specialist accountancy service to ensure all their tax affairs are in order.

Darren Boston, SME business unit head for HMRC in south-east England, commented: "The taskforce will come down hard and fast on those who have chosen to break the rules and deliberately evade the taxes they should be paying but not submitting their returns.

"While business activities may have ceased in some cases, or there may in fact be no tax liability, HMRC will target those who are fully aware how much money they are due to pay but have made the conscious decision not to submit the necessary declarations."

The move comes as part of an increased effort from HMRC to cut back on tax avoidance around the UK.

Posted by Thomas Fletcher