Accountants claim they would support a tax-dodgers’ amnesty
MOST accountants would support a general tax amnesty, allowing tax dodgers to declare income to the government in exchange for a lower penalty, according to a survey published today by audit, tax and advisory firm Crowe Clark Whitehill.
Previous amnesties have allowed UK individuals with bank accounts, trusts or companies in Switzerland to preserve their anonymity in exchange for paying a one-off levy of between 19 and 34 per cent of the balance, and a withholding tax on future income. Alternatively, those affected can avoid the charges if they pay all taxes due.
Over three-quarters of accountants surveyed claimed they would tell large numbers of clients about a general version of a similar amnesty. The most important factor cited as key to its success is immunity from prosecution.