Steering Committee within Legislative Assembly
A new entity, the Representative Body Steering Group, has been established within the UK tax system, aiming to enhance the effectiveness of the tax system. The group's creation was in response to feedback from members and the public, with its purpose being to consult with customers on major policy and operational issues and to improve customer experience.
The group will consist of one member per representative body at a senior level, and other parties may be invited to attend or dial into meetings on an 'as needed' basis. This diverse membership is intended to ensure that the group represents a wide range of perspectives and expertise. Members can bring another representative to meetings if they wish, fostering a strong relationship through collaboration and utilization of expertise and contacts.
Regularly planned or bespoke forums will provide direct channels between the operational and policy arms of HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC). The group will jointly agree work plans and develop working groups as needed. Deputies' attendance at meetings will be agreed with the secretariat in advance, and the agenda and related papers will be sent 5 working days in advance of meetings.
Actions falling to the group may be subject to ministerial or Executive Committee approval. The group will carry out a 'light touch' evaluation after each meeting, and actions will be agreed at the end of each meeting and minutes will be circulated for approval within 10 working days.
The group's shared aim is to improve the effectiveness of the tax system. To achieve this, it will continually improve engagement opportunities with software developers and professional bodies. Bi-monthly hybrid meetings will be scheduled 6 months in advance, and bespoke ad hoc meetings will be arranged when requested by members.
While specific details regarding the exact purpose, structure, terms of reference, and membership of the Representative Body Steering Group within the UK tax system are not yet confirmed, it is clear that the group will play a significant role in guiding, overseeing, and coordinating efforts related to taxpayer representation or consultation within the UK tax system.
It is worth noting that the Scottish Government has set up a separate Tax Advisory Group to provide strategic advice on tax policy and strategy. However, the Representative Body Steering Group is specific to a UK-wide context.
Until more authoritative sources are consulted, the exact nature and composition of the Representative Body Steering Group within the UK tax system remain to be confirmed.
The Representative Body Steering Group, centered around finance and business matters, aims to improve the effectiveness of the UK tax system. As part of this effort, they will work closely with software developers and professional bodies, conducting regular meetings to address key policy issues and improve customer experience.
