HMRC calls in the debt collectors

HM Revenue and Customs is experimenting with the use of debt collection agencies to stir late payers, both businesses and individuals.

The trial will target a range of outstanding tax liabilities of various ages of debt, an HMRC spokesman told The Times.

KPMG tax partner Paul Harrison called on HMRC to exercise sensitivity in its attempts to recover unpaid amounts tax. "HMRC needs to make sure they apply quality controls and great reassurance before action is taken."