Office of Tax Simplification Debate

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Department: HM Treasury

Office of Tax Simplification

Amber Rudd Excerpts
Tuesday 20th July 2010

(14 years, 5 months ago)

Commons Chamber
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David Gauke Portrait Mr Gauke
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We are very grateful to Mr Whiting and Mr Jack for giving up their time for free in an attempt to improve our tax system and provide a public service. They deserve thanks from both sides of the House, and it is a pity that there has been a little sniping from one or two Opposition Members.

Amber Rudd Portrait Amber Rudd (Hastings and Rye) (Con)
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Is the Minister aware that in Hastings we have some very successful business groups? They often complain to me about the over-regulation and complexity of the system. If we are to achieve the necessary growth, we need to allow them to expand their businesses. Can he assure me that this office will focus especially on those small and medium enterprises that will provide the growth that this country needs?

David Gauke Portrait Mr Gauke
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My hon. Friend is right to raise that point. Of the two reports that the office will produce initially, one will focus on taxation for small businesses and the problems with IR35. We believe that this organisation will be able to address that difficult issue, which frankly has not been dealt with satisfactorily in recent years.