HMRC explores tougher methods for publicising tax fraud by the wealthy

Public Accounts committee criticised HMRC's lack of strategy

Carmen Reichman
clock • 4 min read

HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) is exploring how it can better publicise fraud investigation outcomes and increase the impact of the sanctions it uses, in order to dispel the myth "people are getting away with tax evasion".

The department said it wants to give the public confidence it is going after wealthy tax evaders and also to deter others from pursuing fraudulent activity. This followed criticism from the Public Accounts committee in a report in April, which told HMRC it must "do more to tackle tax fraud and counter the belief that people are getting away with tax evasion." It said HMRC needed to increase the number of its investigations and prosecutions, including in relation to wealthy tax evaders, and publicise this work to deter others from offending. HMRC accepted the recommendation and said...

To continue reading this article...

Join Professional Adviser for free

  • Unlimited access to real-time news, industry insights and market intelligence
  • Stay ahead of the curve with spotlights on emerging trends and technologies
  • Receive breaking news stories straight to your inbox in the daily newsletters
  • Make smart business decisions with the latest developments in regulation, investing retirement and protection
  • Members-only access to the editor’s weekly Friday commentary
  • Be the first to hear about our events and awards programmes

Join

 

Already a Professional Adviser member?

Login

More on Tax planning

Tax year-end/tax year-start: Unfounded fears and enormous upside

Tax year-end/tax year-start: Unfounded fears and enormous upside

'Clients are tuned in to tax efficiency'

Phillip Wickenden
clock 27 March 2025 • 5 min read
Treasury set to benefit from a £2.4bn boost from IHT

Treasury set to benefit from a £2.4bn boost from IHT

Will raise £14.3bn after pensions come under the IHT umbrella

Isabel Baxter
clock 26 March 2025 • 2 min read
Spring Statement 25: Labour throws down the gauntlet on tax evasion

Spring Statement 25: Labour throws down the gauntlet on tax evasion

Aims to raise extra £1bn per year through crackdown

Jen Frost
clock 26 March 2025 • 2 min read