Header logo
Log in
Hero image News Opinion HMRC frustrated taxpayers

IPSE: Unprecedented HMRC appointment shows Chancellor is listening to frustrated taxpayers

After calling for closer political oversight of HMRC, IPSE has welcomed the Chancellor's decision to appoint a government minister to chair HMRC's board for the first time.

About us simpler
IPSE Press Office
25 Sep 2024
1 minutes
Share

The UK’s self-employed association has praised the appointment of a government minister to Chair HMRC’s board following recent criticism of the department’s performance – marking the first time a political official has held the position.

The appointment of Exchequer Secretary James Murray MP to Chair HMRC’s board came as part of a package of measures announced by the Chancellor in her speech at the Labour Party Conference this week. As a non-ministerial department, HMRC traditionally operates at arm's length from government ministers.

The UK’s self-employed association, IPSE, has praised the decision.

IPSE’s Policy Director Andy Chamberlain said: “For the Chancellor to break with convention and charge a minister with keeping a closer eye on HMRC is a bold step – but the right one.

“Taxpayers have become immensely frustrated with the service they’re getting from the taxman and feel they have no recourse through elected officials when the department acts unfairly.

“We’ve been campaigning for stronger ministerial oversight of HMRC as a means to turn the ship around and build more trust between taxpayers and the taxman. We welcome James Murray’s appointment as Chair of HMRC’s board and look forward to supporting his work on HMRC’s strategic priorities.”

ENDS

The latest self-employed news and opinion

Companies House ID verification 2
Companies House identity verification: What’s changing?
+1 more

IPSE's Josh Toovey reviews what the introduction of identity verification at Companies House will mean for company directors and outlines why it could be complica...

06 Aug 2025
Josh Toovey Headshot
Josh Toovey
Late payment guide legal rights and process for claiming a late payment 2
Government announces major late payment reforms for freelancers
+1 more

IPSE’s Josh Toovey argues new late payment laws will protect freelancers with capped terms, automatic interest, and stronger powers to deter repeat offenders.

31 Jul 2025
Josh Toovey Headshot
Josh Toovey
IPSE praises landmark late payment clampdown
IPSE praises “landmark” late payment clampdown as government unveils tough new laws
+2 more

IPSE has welcomed new measures to tackle late payments to freelancers and small businesses.

31 Jul 2025
About us simpler
IPSE Press Office
IPSE-LOGO-HEADER

Join our newsletter

Registered in England and Wales, no 03770926. 4th Floor, 95 Gresham Street, City of London, London EC2V 7AB