22
Deferred
Lengthy complex investigations for wealthy individuals pose a potential flight risk.
Conclusion
We asked HMRC about the risk of people under investigation leaving the country, given that some investigations take so long to complete. HMRC conceded that taking too long to complete its complex investigations could present a flight risk but said that its agreements with international partners would mean it could pursue anyone who tries to leave the UK.42 HMRC emphasised that it is important that the wealthy team takes on the big cases and should not be deterred from taking on the big cases because they may take longer to resolve.43
Government Response Summary
The government agrees and will report back on the recommendation by Autumn 2026, pending completion of HMRC's assessment of its application of powers and sanctions.
Government Response
Deferred
Government Response
Deferred
HM Government
Deferred
5.1 The government agrees with the Committee’s recommendation Target implementation date: Autumn 2026 5.2 HMRC will report back on this recommendation once its assessment of its application of powers and sanctions has been completed.
Source
Committee
Public Accounts Committee
Report
40th Report - Collecting the right tax from wealthy individuals
16 Jul 2025
HC 827
Addressee Bodies
HM Treasury
Timeline
Recommendation age
1.0 yr
Report published
16 Jul 2025