General tax avoidance rule discussions begin

Discussions about introducing a general anti-tax avoidance rule are taking place in Whitehall this month, reported the FT.

Introducing a GAAR was first mooted a decade ago, but the Treasury and HM Revenue & Customs launched a consultation in July to reconsider the idea.

The main concern voiced about a general provision for anti-avoidance is the potential uncertainty it creates in the tax system.

Further reading:

Treasury steps up anti-avoidance plans

Advisers fear Budget anti-avoidance plans

Emergency Budget: The problems with GAAR