Northern Ireland tax evaders targeted

Tax evaders in Northern Ireland will be targeted by HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) in one of their latest taskforces.

The department has put the spotlight on four areas, following an announcement made yesterday (February 12th) as it looks to recoup lost tax revenues.

Among the areas tax inspectors will be looking at is self assessment repayments in London and the south-east, the jewellery trade in the Midlands and fast food outlets in East Anglia.

David Gauke, Exchequer Secretary to the Treasury, explained: "This taskforce is targeting people who are not playing by the rules. Most of us pay what we should.

"We have made it clear that we will not tolerate tax evasion and will crack down on those who break the rules."

HMRC launched taskforces after the government said it will be investing in tackling tax evasion, avoidance and fraud from 2011-12, aiming to raise around £7 billion every year by the 2014-15 tax year.

Posted by Thomas Fletcher

Last updated: 13th February 2013