Tax Evasion

HC Deb 27 July 1979 vol 971 cc555-6W

Mr. Field

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will publish in theOfficial Report how many Inland Revenue staff are specifically engaged in work to counter tax evasion and nonpayment.

Mr. Peter Rees

The countering of evasion forms part in the normal duties of the majority of Inland Revenue staff. In addition, about 260 staff are employed in specialist investigation units.

Securing payment of established tax liabilities is the general function of collectors of taxes. The more difficult cases are handled by the enforcement office of the Inland Revenue which has a total staff (all grades) of about 430. Formal proceedings to enforce payment of tax also forms part of the work of the Solicitor of Inland Revenue's office.