This week, HMRC has begun a new open consultation on two issues relating to tax avoidance. The 42-page consultation document, entitled ‘Raising the stakes on tax avoidance’, proposes two things: first, a new set of obligations for high-risk promoters, their intermediaries and users; and secondly, encouragement to users of avoidance schemes to settle their tax affairs after similar cases have lost in court or tribunal. Views on a proposed extension to the prescribed information to be provided under the Disclosure of Tax Avoidance Schemes (DOTAS) rules are also being sought by the Government.

HMRC has said that it would like to hear views from representative bodies, tax advisers and promoters, as well as businesses and individuals who may have received marketing material from high-risk promoters, taken advice about tax avoidance schemes, or who are or would be a follower case in avoidance litigation. The deadline for feedback is 4 October 2013 and comments can be sent to aag.consultation@hmrc.gsi.gov.uk

For more information, please see https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/raising-the-stakes-on-tax-avoidance