Making a difference for our large business customers

The framework for a better relationship

The Review of Links with Large Business, published in November 2006, focused on outcomes designed to improve the attractiveness of the UK business tax administration. The Review made 14 recommendations and delivery has focused across four key themes:

  • certainty through clearances and advance rulings
  • tax risk management across employment and business taxes
  • speedy resolution of issues
  • clarity through effective consultation

We have met our commitment by implementing new processes that will deliver all the recommendations in the 2006 report, setting out the framework for a better relationship with business.

What have we delivered since November 2006?

We have made considerable progress, working closely with our large business customers and their advisers, but there are still significant challenges ahead as we begin to embed new ways of working. The key to success will be a mutual commitment from both HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) and business to work together to build a better relationship founded on trust and open dialogue.

A new approach to transfer pricing

In the quarter to April 2008, average time taken to resolve cases settled during January to March 2008 - 24 months; average age of cases open at the end of March 2008 - 31 months.

In the quarter to July 2008, average time taken to resolve cases settled in the quarter to June 2008 - 38 months; average age of cases open at the end of June 2008 - 32 months.

The Large Business Advisory Board

The Large Business Advisory Board has provided our implementation team with support and direction at critical times during the year. We are grateful for their public sponsorship as we continue our programme of change.

If you’d like more details on the Review of Links, contact Angela Brown.

Review of links publications

Programme of guidance improvements for business