HMRC accused of making kids ‘spy’ on tax evaders

HM Revenue and Customs have announced that there is going to be a new initiative to help children understand about tax, and the significance it has on the community in which they live. However, there has been widespread controversy about the course after it was revealed that 11-year-olds would be asked to name and shame members of the local area who might not be paying tax at the correct level.

Although experts believe it is an excellent idea for children in secondary school to learn about tax, it’s believed that these lesson plans are in the wrong context.

One said: “It should be HMRC’s job to collect the right levels of tax. Not only are they unable to do this after widespread cuts, but the complicated nature of the system means that many people are unsure what they should be paying.

“Children should be taught about the importance of tax, and streamlined forms of tax should be introduced. If tax is easier to understand, it will be easier to collect, boosting revenue overall.”

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