Midlands accountants talk to HMRC

Date: 9th September 2008

A large number of accountants from the Midlands have met with HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) to make their views about the current taxation regime known.

At least 40 accountants and tax advisers joined representatives from the tax organisation late last week at the National Motorcycle Museum in Birmingham.

The meeting was part of HMRC's Working Together series of events. In the past, the government body has said that these meetings are important as they provide an opportunity to discuss issues or problems arising from the tax system.

Cheryl Fielder, the deputy director for HMRC customer processing, said that the Birmingham meeting was "really encouraging".

"Working better and closer with accountants and tax advisers is one of HMRC's key aims," she explained.

"[At the meeting] we have taken a huge step towards better collaborative working and strengthening our relationship with agents at a local level."

Accountant Richard Shooter added: "I feel that HMRC staff and agents now have a better knowledge of each others issues and this can only be a good thing.

"We've also had the opportunity to take part in some interesting technical discussions on current issues. Our voice has been heard and that is very encouraging."