Professional Conduct in Relation to Taxation - Staying within the Rules - Key Points

Course Content

Professional Conduct in Relation to Taxation” (PCRT) is guidance written by professional bodies (ICAEW, AAT, ACCA, ATT, CIOT, ICAS and STEP) for their members working in tax. It sets out hallmarks of a good tax advisor, and in particular the fundamental principles of behaviour that members are expected to follow. This was reinforced in 2017.

Many observers believe that the war against aggressive tax planning has already been won with the majority of cases that are receiving publicity dating back over 10 years. However, the politicians and HMRC believe that they need more tools in the box.

Accordingly there are new penalties for tax planning which is defeated in the courts. Indeed, even if one wins in the courts, it is now possible to face issues with your professional body if you are judged to have engaged in aggressive tax avoidance.

This course explores the new powers that HMRC has to combat tax avoidance. It also looks at the position of the courts.

The seminar also explores the new (PCRT) professional conduct with respect to taxation which has been adopted by seven professional bodies.

This course will review the PCRT guidance, including any updates in relation to tax avoidance and tax planning. 

The course covers:

• The professional duties of an adviser
• How to define aggressive tax avoidance
• HMRC powers
• Recent court cases
• The professional code of conduct