Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what assessment HMRC has made of the circumstances of individuals affected by the Loan Charge who acted on professional advice.

Tackling tax avoidance continues to be a priority for the Government and has introduced additional criminal sanctions in Finance Act 2026. These will enhance the deterrent against promotion of tax avoidance and increase protection against harm caused to the exchequer, the tax system and taxpayers.

HMRC also regularly name promoters on Gov.uk and publish information about their schemes (and others connected to the selling of the schemes), such as company directors, legal advisors, to help customers identify schemes and steer clear of them.

However, HMRC has a duty to collect tax when it is legally due. I recognise dealing with large tax liabilities can lead to pressure on individuals. For those liable to the Loan Charge, the Government has introduced legislation in the Finance Act to provide for a generous new settlement offer.

HMRC is committed to working sensitively and pragmatically with taxpayers to reach settlement. This includes offering flexible payment terms where people need more time to pay their liabilities.