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