South: HMRC reports conviction of nearly 700 tax criminals

Almost 700 tax fraudsters and benefit cheats were convicted in the past year, says HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC). 

Between January and the end of November, HMRC investigations led to 690 successful convictions – up from 477 in 2012, and the highest since the 2010 Spending Review. These convictions led to sentences totalling 355 years in prison.

The investigations covered everything from complex VAT, income tax and benefit frauds to smuggling cases.

Exchequer secretary to the treasury David Gauke said: “The Government is determined to make sure people pay the tax they owe and HMRC will come down hard on those who try to cheat the system. Honest taxpayers will be pleased that these fraudsters are now paying for their crimes.

“We have invested nearly £1 billon in HMRC to tackle those who fail to play by the rules, and today’s figures clearly demonstrate that investment is paying off.”

A tax evasion campaign has been launched by HMRC as part of the Government’s near £1b investment to tackle tax evasion, avoidance and fraud. This will aim to raise an additional £7b each year by 2014/15.