Parliamentary Search

Written question asked by Lord Campbell-Savours (Labour) on Tuesday, 26 January 2016, in the House of Lords. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 9 February 2016. It was answered by Lord O'Neill of Gatley (Conservative) on Tuesday, 9 February 2016 on behalf of the Treasury.

VAT: Fraud

Question

To ask Her Majesty’s Government whether they have received evidence of VAT fraud in the London souvenir and gift trade, and if so, what action they have taken to combat it.

Answer

HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) receive a variety of data and intelligence from numerous sources. Everything from bulk data from third parties to information provided by individuals through the Tax and Customs Evasion Hotlines.

Clamping down on those who try to cheat the system through evading taxes and over claiming benefits is a key priority for HMRC, and they are committed to ensuring the tax system operates fairly and efficiently. All the information HMRC receive is risk-assessed and a decision made on the most appropriate course of action.

Data and intelligence received could include information relating to the London souvenir and gift trade. However, there is strict law of confidentiality covering all the work for which HMRC are responsible. The relevant law is Section 18 of the Commissioners for Revenue & Customs Act 2005, which strictly limits the circumstances under which they disclose information they hold and any action taken. This prohibits HMRC from giving specific details of any information received regarding any sector.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
HL5501
Session
2015-16
Subjects
Fraud Greater London VAT Tourism
Contains statistics
Yes
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk