Mark McLaughlin looks at HMRC\u2019s standard for agents and asks whether this approach is necessary and proportionate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
It might be argued that HMRC should get its own house in order before seeking to impose standards on tax advisers. On the other hand, tax advisers are a mixed bunch in terms of qualifications, experience and abilities; within that broad spectrum the professional standards of tax advisers are, putting it mildly, variable. So, it should probably come as no surprise that HMRC is taking a close interest in regulating agents\u2019 behaviour.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The professional standards for those engaged in tax work who are members of professional bodies are generally set out in regulatory documents produced by those bodies. For example, \u2018Professional Conduct in Relation to Taxation\u2019 (PCRT) was produced by seven professional bodies (including the Chartered Institute of Taxation, Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and in Scotland, Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners) \u201c\u2026to assist and advise members on their professional conduct in relation to taxation, and particularly in the tripartite relationship between a member, client\u2026 and HMRC\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Solicitors and barristers who advise on tax are subject to their own rules and regulations, but still need to be mindful of the PCRT standards for members of the relevant professional bodies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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