Have a question?
033 3772 0409

Crime Solicitors

London Mayor says people have a right to “minimise” tax (16 February 2015)

Date: 16/02/2015
Duncan Lewis, Crime Solicitors, London Mayor says people have a right to “minimise” tax

London Mayor Boris Johnson has said that taxpayers have the right to minimise their tax liability to HM Revenue and Customs – although he accepts that every taxpayer should pay their “fair whack” of tax.

Speaking to London newspaper the Evening Standard, Mr Johnson was responding to the scandal surrounding ongoing disclosures about senor public figures – including politicians – who may have channelled their finances through trusts in Switzerland to avoid paying large amounts of tax. Family trusts were set up in some cases – and HSBC is at the centre of allegations about how clients’ tax liability was heavily reduced as a result of the schemes.

Tax avoidance is not a criminal offence in the UK – but people found guilty of tax evasion may face a jail term.

Mr Johnson said:

“I think people have a legitimate right to minimise their tax obligations if they can – but they should pay their fair whack.

“I do think it’s important to be transparent,” Mr Johnson added.

HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) is currently facing scrutiny, after it was revealed that an email had been sent to the government department as early as 2008 by whistleblower Herve Falciani, advising tax revenue officials of the avoidance schemes.

A copy of the email has now been uncovered by French newspaper Le Monde, suggesting that HMRC was aware of what was happening.

HMRC boss Lin Homer has denied any knowledge of the email to MPs.

Duncan Lewis Crime Lawyers

Duncan Lewis crime lawyers can advise at any stage of a charge relating to financial crime, including company fraud, tax evasion, property fraud, pyramid selling or Ponzi schemes.

Duncan Lewis is a leading firm of Legal Aid services and has offices nationwide, so a criminal defence lawyer can be with you within an hour.

For expert legal advice on criminal charges and representation during police interview under caution, call Duncan Lewis crime lawyers on 020 7923 4020.

For out-of-hours criminal law advice and representation, call the Duncan Lewis Crime Lawyers Out-of-Hours Hotline on 07920 077057.


For all Crime related matter contact us now.Contact Us

Call us now on 033 3772 0409 or click here to send online enquiry.
Duncan Lewis is the trading name of Duncan Lewis (Solicitors) Limited. Registered Office is 143-149 Fenchurch St, London, EC3M 6BL. Company Reg. No. 3718422. VAT Reg. No. 718729013. A list of the company's Directors is displayed at the registered offices address. Authorised and Regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority . Offices all across London and in major cities in the UK. ©Duncan Lewis >>Legal Disclaimer, Copyright & Privacy Policy. Duncan Lewis do not accept service by email.