HMRC has launched a new enforcement blitz targeting tax fraud and illegal activity on high streets, with more than 30,000 interventions planned this year. The tax authority is urging the public to report suspicious activity, from dodgy vape shops to barbers, through its improved Report Tax Fraud service on GOV.UK.
The service prompts users for specific, factual information about what they have observed, such as suspicious activity, behaviour, locations and timings related to money laundering or other HMRC-related criminal activity. All information can be submitted anonymously, and HMRC says it has made the service easier to use.
Public urged to report suspicious businesses
HMRC has improved its tax fraud reporting service, making it easier for the public to report something that doesn't look right. Information submitted through the service will help HMRC's enforcement teams build intelligence, identify patterns, assess risks and target its compliance and enforcement activity more effectively.
Chancellor John Healey is backing the move from the tax authority. He said: “Too many high streets have been blighted by dodgy shops that harm local communities and undercuts honest businesses. If you see something that doesn’t look right, like suspected tax fraud or money laundering, use HMRC’s fraud reporting service and help protect our high streets.”
Government plans to revoke betting shop rules
As part of the Prime Minister’s plans to save Britain’s high streets, the Government intends to revoke the Gambling Act’s outdated “Aim to Permit” rule. This rule currently restricts the ability of councils to refuse new betting shops and 24-hour slot machine shops, even where there are strong local concerns.
The change would give communities and councils a stronger say over whether new betting shops are right for their area, helping stop them spreading unchecked across struggling high streets.
Prime Minister pledges to restore high streets
Prime Minister Andy Burnham said: “For many people, the high streets they grew up with have been hollowed out and become unrecognisable over decades of decline. The rise of vape shops, betting shops and rogue operators have replaced the shops, services, and community spaces that people are crying out for.
“That’s not on. I said we would improve Britain’s high streets, and that’s exactly what we are starting to do. We’re putting communities back in control and giving local people a real say over what opens on their high street. Local councils will be given the powers they need to rein in unwanted shops and bring town centres back to life.
“High streets are the beating heart of local communities, but for too long Westminster has stood by while they have been in decline. This government is committed to restoring our high streets and bringing back hope across Britain.”
