CIOT Calls For Taxpayers' Charter

by Jason Gorringe, Tax-News.com, London

17 October 2006

As Tax Advice Week launched this week, the Chartered Institute of Taxation (CIOT) called for the UK Chancellor, Gordon Brown, to introduce a Taxpayers’ Charter in his next Budget in 2007.

John Cullinane, CIOT President, explained that:

“The introduction of a Charter is one step towards putting the administration of taxation in Britain back on the basis of the rule of law. Government is right to look at streamlining technology but the process must always respect people’s fundamental rights. It is vital that everyone understands the guiding principles and a Charter is the best way to ensure this.”

According to the Institute:

"During the last two years, the CIOT and its Members have engaged in the debate over a Taxpayers’ Charter or Bill of Rights. We welcomed the cross-party Early Day Motion in Parliament calling for a Charter and discussed the subject at last year’s CTA Day Tax Debate. Recently, Philip Baker QC argued that it is time to consider how best to implement a Charter: the case for establishing one has been made."

John Cullinane added:

“Philip Baker is right - the case has been made for a Charter. The CIOT supports his call for the Charter to be included in the next Finance Bill as a Taxpayers’ Charter of Rights (and Duties). A Charter will protect the taxpayer and give the tax collector a better focus: creating a tax system that meets society’s needs.”

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