“The report shows that H M Customs and Excise are doing much good work to collect the correct amount of gambling duties, but there are still risks to that revenue from illegal bookmakers and operators using amusement machines without obtaining licences. Closer working with other government agencies involved with the industry can help to tackle these risks.”
“Partnerships like the one between the Inland Revenue and EDS, rely on trust and understanding between two organisations, qualities which are particularly important as requirements change and develop. Management of the risks associated with new work is therefore a challenging area for value for money. Much has already been achieved, and the Department must ensure that it retains the capability to manage the relationship and keep its options open for the future.”
Section 161 of the Social Security Administration Act 1992 requires me to examine and certify the National Insurance Fund Account and this report records the results of my examination of the 1998-99 account.
“The Revenue Departments collected over £220 billion tax in 1998-99. With such large sums at stake, it is important that the tax system operates effectively. I am therefore pleased to advise Parliament that my examination confirmed that the Department’s systems continued to provide an effective check on the assessment and collection of revenue”.
“Customs and Excise deserve credit for deploying resources intelligently so that returns are increased. Their well-focused approach has yielded clear benefits but even more revenue could be brought in by directing greater effort at the highest risk traders”.
Section 161 of the Social Security Administration Act 1992 requires me to examine and certify the National Insurance Fund Account and this report records the results of my examination of the 1997-98 account.
