CIOT and ATT Media Coverage – March 2024

CIOT and ATT experts featured prominently in the media throughout March, providing insights on key tax issues. Kelly Sizer from the Low Incomes Tax Reform Group (LITRG) appeared on BBC Radio 4’s Money Box to discuss how frozen tax thresholds have increased pension taxation. Meanwhile, ATT technical officer Emma Rawson spoke on BBC Radio Essex, highlighting the political complexities of the 2024 Budget in an election year. Sean Cockburn, chair of CIOT’s Scottish technical committee, analyzed the Chancellor’s decision to cut National Insurance instead of income tax in The Herald, emphasizing its impact on UK-wide taxpayers.

CIOT’s response to HMRC’s controversial decision to close its helpline over the summer gained widespread media attention. The Daily Telegraph, The Times, Financial Times, Guardian, Daily Mail, and BBC Radio 2 and 4 all reported on concerns from Gary Ashford (CIOT) and Victoria Todd (LITRG) about potential delays in tax filings due to the shift to digital services. A Press Association article quoting CIOT was syndicated across more than 200 local and regional media outlets, amplifying the discussion around tax administration accessibility.

When HMRC reversed its decision to close the self-assessment helpline for half of the year, CIOT’s views were again widely quoted. BBC News Online, along with over 40 other media platforms, covered Gary Ashford’s statement, acknowledging the need for improved online tax services while recognizing the public’s reliance on HMRC’s phone support. This widespread coverage reinforced CIOT and ATT’s role as leading voices in tax policy discussions.

Source: Tax Adviser Magazine