Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, whether he plans to make access to covid-19 support packages contingent on companies meeting their tax obligations; and if he will make a statement.

The Government has introduced an unprecedented support package that is well-targeted at the businesses and individuals who most need support, bearing in mind the need to act very quickly to protect livelihoods from the current crisis.

Where businesses fail to meet their tax obligations, HMRC challenge them using their compliance powers. That is the right way to challenge rule-breaking, not by denying access to measures that support the British economy and workers who pay their taxes, and who would otherwise lose their jobs.

The Government expects everyone to act responsibly and in the spirit of the package, and only claim and use support as intended. The Government is keeping measures under constant review.