209AEffect of adjustments specified in a provisional counteraction notice

1

Adjustments made by an officer of Revenue and Customs which—

a

are specified in a provisional counteraction notice given to a person by the officer (and have not been cancelled: see sections 209B to 209E),

b

are made in respect of a tax advantage that would (ignoring this Part) arise from tax arrangements that are abusive, and

c

but for section 209(6)(a), would have effected a valid counteraction of that tax advantage under section 209,

are treated for all purposes as effecting a valid counteraction of the tax advantage under that section.

2

A “provisional counteraction notice” is a notice which—

a

specifies adjustments (the “notified adjustments”) which the officer reasonably believes may be required under section 209(1) to counteract a tax advantage that would (ignoring this Part) arise to the person from tax arrangements;

b

specifies the arrangements and the tax advantage concerned, and

c

notifies the person of the person's rights of appeal with respect to the notified adjustments (when made) and contains a statement that if an appeal is made against the making of the adjustments—

i

no steps may be taken in relation to the appeal unless and until the person is given a notice referred to in section 209F(2), and

ii

the notified adjustments will be cancelled if HMRC fails to take at least one of the actions mentioned in section 209B(4) within the period specified in section 209B(2).

3

It does not matter whether the notice is given before or at the same time as the making of the adjustments.

4

In this section “adjustments” includes adjustments made in any way permitted by section 209(5).

209BNotified adjustments: 12 month period for taking action if appeal made

1

This section applies where a person (the “taxpayer”) to whom a provisional counteraction notice has been given appeals against the making of the notified adjustments.

2

The notified adjustments are to be treated as cancelled with effect from the end of the period of 12 months beginning with the day on which the provisional counteraction notice is given unless an action mentioned in subsection (4) is taken before that time.

3

For the purposes of subsection (2) it does not matter whether the action mentioned in subsection (4)(c), (d) or (e) is taken before or after the provisional counteraction notice is given (but if that action is taken before the provisional counteraction notice is given subsection (5) does not have effect).

4

The actions are—

a

an officer of Revenue and Customs notifying the taxpayer that the notified adjustments are cancelled;

b

an officer of Revenue and Customs giving the taxpayer written notice of the withdrawal of the provisional counteraction notice (without cancelling the notified adjustments);

c

a designated HMRC officer giving the taxpayer a notice under paragraph 3 of Schedule 43 which—

i

specifies the arrangements and the tax advantage which are specified in the provisional counteraction notice, and

ii

specifies the notified adjustments (or lesser adjustments) as the counteraction that the officer considers ought to be taken (see paragraph 3(2)(c) of that Schedule);

d

a designated HMRC officer giving the taxpayer a pooling notice or a notice of binding under Schedule 43A which—

i

specifies the arrangements and the tax advantage which are specified in the provisional counteraction notice, and

ii

specifies the notified adjustments (or lesser adjustments) as the counteraction that the officer considers ought to be taken;

e

a designated HMRC officer giving the taxpayer a notice under paragraph 1(2) of Schedule 43B which—

i

specifies the arrangements and the tax advantage which are specified in the provisional counteraction notice, and

ii

specifies the notified adjustments (or lesser adjustments) as the counteraction that the officer considers ought to be taken.

5

In a case within subsection (4)(c), (d) or (e), if—

a

the notice under paragraph 3 of Schedule 43, or

b

the pooling notice or notice of binding, or

c

the notice under paragraph 1(2) of Schedule 43B,

(as the case may be) specifies lesser adjustments the officer must modify the notified adjustments accordingly.

6

The officer may not take the action in subsection (4)(b) unless the officer was authorised to make the notified adjustments otherwise than under this Part.

7

In this section “lesser adjustments” means adjustments which assume a smaller tax advantage than was assumed in the provisional counteraction notice.

209CNotified adjustments: case within section 209B(4)(c)

1

This section applies if the action in section 209B(4)(c) (notice to taxpayer of proposed counteraction of tax advantage) is taken.

2

If the matter is not referred to the GAAR Advisory Panel, the notified adjustments are to be treated as cancelled with effect from the date of the designated HMRC officer's decision under paragraph 6(2) of Schedule 43 unless the notice under paragraph 6(3) of Schedule 43 states that the adjustments are not to be treated as cancelled under this section.

3

A notice under paragraph 6(3) of Schedule 43 may not contain the statement referred to in subsection (2) unless HMRC would have been authorised to make the adjustments if the general anti-abuse rule did not have effect.

4

If the taxpayer is given a notice under paragraph 12 of Schedule 43 which states that the specified tax advantage is not to be counteracted under the general anti-abuse rule, the notified adjustments are to be treated as cancelled unless that notice states that those adjustments are not to be treated as cancelled under this section.

5

A notice under paragraph 12 of Schedule 43 may not contain the statement referred to in subsection (4) unless HMRC would have been authorised to make the adjustments if the general anti-abuse rule did not have effect.

6

If the taxpayer is given a notice under paragraph 12 of Schedule 43 stating that the specified tax advantage is to be counteracted—

a

the notified adjustments are confirmed only so far as they are specified in that notice as adjustments required to give effect to the counteraction, and

b

so far as they are not confirmed, the notified adjustments are to be treated as cancelled.

209DNotified adjustments: case within section 209B(4)(d)

1

This section applies if the action in section 209B(4)(d) (pooling notice or notice of binding) is taken.

2

If the taxpayer is given a notice under paragraph 8(2) or 9(2) of Schedule 43A which states that the specified tax advantage is not to be counteracted under the general anti-abuse rule, the notified adjustments are to be treated as cancelled, unless that notice states that those adjustments are not to be treated as cancelled under this section.

3

A notice under paragraph 8(2) or 9(2) of Schedule 43A may not contain the statement referred to in subsection (2) unless HMRC would have been authorised to make the adjustments if the general anti-abuse rule did not have effect.

4

If the taxpayer is given a notice under paragraph 8(2) or 9(2) of Schedule 43A stating that the specified tax advantage is to be counteracted—

a

the notified adjustments are confirmed only so far as they are specified in that notice as adjustments required to give effect to the counteraction, and

b

so far as they are not confirmed, the notified adjustments are to be treated as cancelled.

209ENotified adjustments: case within section 209B(4)(e)

1

This section applies if the action in section 209B(4)(e) (notice of proposal to make generic referral) is taken.

2

If the notice under paragraph 1(2) of Schedule 43B is withdrawn, the notified adjustments are to be treated as cancelled unless the notice of withdrawal states that the adjustments are not to be treated as cancelled under this section.

3

The notice of withdrawal may not contain the statement referred to in subsection (2) unless HMRC was authorised to make the notified adjustments otherwise than under this Part.

4

If the taxpayer is given a notice under paragraph 8(2) of Schedule 43B, which states that the specified tax advantage is not to be counteracted under the general anti-abuse rule, the notified adjustments are to be treated as cancelled, unless that notice states that those adjustments are not to be treated as cancelled under this section.

5

A notice under paragraph 8(2) of Schedule 43B may not contain the statement referred to in subsection (4) unless HMRC was authorised to make the adjustments otherwise than under this Part.

6

If the taxpayer is given a notice under paragraph 8(2) of Schedule 43B stating that the specified tax advantage is to be counteracted—

a

the notified adjustments are confirmed only so far as they are specified in that notice as adjustments required to give effect to the counteraction, and

b

so far as they are not confirmed, the notified adjustments are to be treated as cancelled.

209FAppeals against provisional counteractions: further provision

1

Subsections (2) to (5) have effect in relation to an appeal by a person (“the taxpayer”) against the making of adjustments which are specified in a provisional counteraction notice.

2

No steps after the initial notice of appeal are to be taken in relation to the appeal unless and until the taxpayer is given—

a

a notice under section 209B(4)(b),

b

a notice under paragraph 6(3) of Schedule 43 (notice of decision not to refer matter to GAAR advisory panel) containing the statement described in section 209C(2) (statement that adjustments are not to be treated as cancelled),

c

a notice under paragraph 12 of Schedule 43,

d

a notice under paragraph 8(2) or 9(2) of Schedule 43A, or

e

a notice under paragraph 8 of Schedule 43B,

in respect of the tax arrangements concerned.

3

The taxpayer has until the end of the period mentioned in subsection (4) to comply with any requirement to specify the grounds of appeal.

4

The period mentioned in subsection (3) is the 30 days beginning with the day on which the taxpayer receives the notice mentioned in subsection (2).

5

In subsection (2) the reference to “steps” does not include the withdrawal of the appeal.

“notified adjustments”, in relation to a provisional counteraction notice, has the meaning given by section 209A(2);

“provisional counteraction notice” has the meaning given by section 209A(2);

SCHEDULE 43AProcedural requirements: pooling notices and notices of binding

Pooling notices

1

1

This paragraph applies where a person has been given a notice under paragraph 3 of Schedule 43 in relation to any tax arrangements (the “lead arrangements”) and the condition in sub-paragraph (2) is met.

2

The condition is that the period of 45 days mentioned in paragraph 4(1) of Schedule 43 has expired but no notice under paragraph 12 of Schedule 43 or paragraph 8 of Schedule 43B has yet been given in respect of the matter.

3

If a designated HMRC officer considers—

a

that a tax advantage has arisen to another person (“R”) from tax arrangements that are abusive,

b

that those tax arrangements (“R's arrangements”) are equivalent to the lead arrangements, and

c

that the advantage ought to be counteracted under section 209,

the officer may give R a notice (a “pooling notice”) which places R's arrangements in a pool with the lead arrangements.

4

There is one pool for any lead arrangements, so all tax arrangements placed in a pool with the lead arrangements (as well as the lead arrangements themselves) are in one and the same pool.

5

Tax arrangements which have been placed in a pool do not cease to be in the pool except where that is expressly provided for by this Schedule (regardless of whether or not the lead arrangements or any other tax arrangements remain in the pool).

6

The officer may not give R a pooling notice if R has been given in respect of R's arrangements a notice under paragraph 3 of Schedule 43.

Notice of proposal to bind arrangements to counteracted arrangements

2

1

This paragraph applies where a counteraction notice has been given to a person in relation to any tax arrangements (the “counteracted arrangements”) which are in a pool created under paragraph 1.

2

If a designated HMRC officer considers—

a

that a tax advantage has arisen to another person (“R”) from tax arrangements that are abusive,

b

that those tax arrangements (“R's arrangements”) are equivalent to the counteracted arrangements, and

c

that the advantage ought to be counteracted under section 209,

the officer may give R a notice (a “notice of binding”) in relation to R's arrangements.

3

The officer may not give R a notice of binding if R has been given in respect of R's arrangements a notice under—

a

paragraph 1, or

b

paragraph 3 of Schedule 43.

4

In this paragraph “counteraction notice” means a notice such as is mentioned in sub-paragraph (2) of paragraph 12 of Schedule 43 or sub-paragraph (3) of paragraph 8 of Schedule 43B (notice of final decision to counteract).

3

1

The decision whether or not to give R a pooling notice or notice of binding must be taken, and any notice must be given, as soon as is reasonably practicable after HMRC becomes aware of the relevant facts.

2

A pooling notice or notice of binding must—

a

specify the tax arrangements in relation to which the notice is given and the tax advantage,

b

explain why the officer considers R's arrangements to be equivalent to the lead arrangements or the counteracted arrangements (as the case may be),

c

explain why the officer considers that a tax advantage has arisen to R from tax arrangements that are abusive,

d

set out the counteraction that the officer considers ought to be taken, and

e

explain the effect of—

i

paragraphs 4 to 10,

ii

subsection (9) of section 209, and

iii

section 212A.

3

A pooling notice or notice of binding may set out steps that R may (subject to subsection (9) of section 209) take to avoid the proposed counteraction.

Corrective action by a notified taxpayer

4

1

If a person to whom a pooling notice or notice of binding has been given takes the relevant corrective action in relation to the tax arrangements and tax advantage specified in the notice before the beginning of the closed period mentioned in section 209(9), the person is to be treated for the purposes of paragraphs 8 and 9 and Schedule 43B (generic referral of tax arrangements) as not having been given the notice in question (and accordingly the tax arrangements in question are no longer in the pool).

2

For the purposes of this Schedule the “relevant corrective action” is taken if (and only if) the person takes the steps set out in sub-paragraphs (3) and (4).

3

The first step is that—

a

the person amends a return or claim to counteract the tax advantage specified in the pooling notice or notice of binding, or

b

if the person has made a tax appeal (by notifying HMRC or otherwise) on the basis that the tax advantage specified in the pooling notice or notice of binding arises from the tax arrangements specified in that notice, the person takes all necessary action to enter into an agreement with HMRC (in writing) for the purpose of relinquishing that advantage.

4

The second step is that the person notifies HMRC—

a

that the first step has been taken, and

b

of any additional amount which has or will become due and payable in respect of tax by reason of the first step being taken.

5

Where a person takes the first step described in sub-paragraph (3)(b), HMRC may proceed as if the person had not taken the relevant corrective action if the person fails to enter into the written agreement.

6

In determining the additional amount which has or will become due and payable in respect of tax for the purposes of sub-paragraph (4)(b), it is to be assumed that, where the person takes the necessary action as mentioned in sub-paragraph (3)(b), the agreement is then entered into.

7

No enactment limiting the time during which amendments may be made to returns or claims operates to prevent the person taking the first step mentioned in sub-paragraph (3)(a) before the tax enquiry is closed.

8

No appeal may be brought, by virtue of a provision mentioned in sub-paragraph (9), against an amendment made by a closure notice in respect of a tax enquiry to the extent that the amendment takes into account an amendment made by the taxpayer to a return or claim in taking the first step mentioned in sub-paragraph (3)(a).

9

The provisions are—

a

paragraph 35(1)(b) of Schedule 33,

b

section 31(1)(b) or (c) of TMA 1970,

c

paragraph 9 of Schedule 1A to TMA 1970,

d

paragraph 34(3) of Schedule 18 to FA 1998, and

e

paragraph 35(1)(b) of Schedule 10 to FA 2003.

Corrective action by lead taxpayer

5

If the person mentioned in paragraph 1(1) takes the relevant corrective action (as defined in paragraph 4A of Schedule 43) before the end of the period of 75 days beginning with the day on which the notice mentioned in paragraph 1(1) was given to that person, the lead arrangements are treated as ceasing to be in the pool.

Opinion notices and right to make representations

6

1

Sub-paragraph (2) applies where—

a

a pooling notice is given to a person in relation to any tax arrangements, and

b

an opinion notice (or opinion notices) under paragraph 11(2) of Schedule 43 about another set of tax arrangements in the pool (“the referred arrangements”) is subsequently given to a designated HMRC officer.

2

The officer must give the person a pooled arrangements opinion notice.

3

No more than one pooled arrangements opinion notice may be given to a person in respect of the same tax arrangements.

4

Where a designated HMRC officer gives a person a notice of binding, the officer must, at the same time, give the person a bound arrangements opinion notice.

7

1

In relation to a person who is, or has been, given a pooling notice, “pooled arrangements opinion notice” means a written notice which—

a

sets out a report prepared by HMRC of any opinion of the GAAR Advisory Panel about the referred arrangements,

b

explains the person's right to make representations falling within sub-paragraph (3), and

c

sets out the period in which those representations may be made.

2

In relation to a person who is given a notice of binding “bound arrangements opinion notice” means a written notice which—

a

sets out a report prepared by HMRC of any opinion of the GAAR Advisory Panel about the counteracted arrangements (see paragraph 2(1)),

b

explains the person's right to make representations falling within sub-paragraph (3), and

c

sets out the period in which those representations may be made.

3

A person who is given a pooled arrangements opinion notice or a bound arrangements opinion notice has 30 days beginning with the day on which the notice is given to make representations in any of the following categories—

a

representations that no tax advantage has arisen to the person from the arrangements to which the notice relates;

b

representations as to why the arrangements to which the notice relates are or may be materially different from—

i

the referred arrangements (in the case of a pooled arrangements opinion notice), or

ii

the counteracted arrangements (in the case of a bound arrangements opinion notice).

4

In sub-paragraph (3)(b) references to “arrangements” include any circumstances which would be relevant in accordance with section 207 to a determination of whether the tax arrangements in question are abusive.

Notice of final decision

8

1

This paragraph applies where—

a

any tax arrangements have been placed in a pool by a notice given to a person under paragraph 1, and

b

a designated HMRC officer has given a notice under paragraph 12 of Schedule 43 in relation to any other arrangements in the pool (the “referred arrangements”).

2

The officer must, having considered any opinion of the GAAR Advisory Panel about the referred arrangements and any representations made under paragraph 7(3) in relation to the arrangements mentioned in sub-paragraph (1)(a), give the person a written notice setting out whether the tax advantage arising from those arrangements is to be counteracted under the general anti-abuse rule.

9

1

This paragraph applies where—

a

a person has been given a notice of binding under paragraph 2, and

b

the period of 30 days for making representations under paragraph 7(3) has expired.

2

A designated HMRC officer must, having considered any opinion of the GAAR Advisory Panel about the counteracted arrangements and any representations made under paragraph 7(3) in relation to the arrangements specified in the notice of binding, give the person a written notice setting out whether the tax advantage arising from the arrangements specified in the notice of binding is to be counteracted under the general anti-abuse rule.

10

If a notice under paragraph 8(2) or 9(2) states that a tax advantage is to be counteracted, it must also set out—

a

the adjustments required to give effect to the counteraction, and

b

if relevant, any steps the person concerned is required to take to give effect to it.

“Equivalent arrangements”

11

1

For the purposes of paragraph 1, tax arrangements are “equivalent” to one another if they are substantially the same as one another having regard to—

a

their substantive results,

b

the means of achieving those results, and

c

the characteristics on the basis of which it could reasonably be argued, in each case, that the arrangements are abusive tax arrangements under which a tax advantage has arisen to a person.

Notices may be given on assumption that tax advantage does arise

12

1

A designated HMRC officer may give a notice, or do anything else, under this Schedule where the officer considers that a tax advantage might have arisen to the person concerned.

2

Accordingly, any notice given by a designated HMRC officer under this Schedule may be expressed to be given on the assumption that a tax advantage does arise (without conceding that it does).

Power to amend

13

1

The Treasury may by regulations amend this Schedule (apart from this paragraph).

2

Regulations under sub-paragraph (1) may include—

a

any amendment of this Part that is appropriate in consequence of an amendment by virtue of sub-paragraph (1);

b

transitional provision.

3

Regulations under sub-paragraph (1) are to be made by statutory instrument.

4

A statutory instrument containing regulations under sub-paragraph (1) is subject to annulment in pursuance of a resolution of the House of Commons.

SCHEDULE 43BProcedural requirements: generic referral of tax arrangements

Notice of proposal to make generic referral of tax arrangements

1

1

Sub-paragraph (2) applies if—

a

pooling notices given under paragraph 1 of Schedule 43A have placed one or more sets of tax arrangements in a pool with the lead arrangements,

b

the lead arrangements (see paragraph 1(1) of Schedule 43A) have ceased to be in the pool, and

c

no referral under paragraph 5 or 6 of Schedule 43 has been made in respect of any arrangements in the pool.

2

A designated HMRC officer may determine that, in respect of each of the tax arrangements that are in the pool, there is to be given (to the person to whom the pooling notice in question was given) a written notice of a proposal to make a generic referral to the GAAR Advisory Panel in respect of the arrangements in the pool.

3

Only one determination under sub-paragraph (2) may be made in relation to any one pool.

4

The persons to whom those notices are given are “the notified taxpayers”.

5

A notice given to a person (“T”) under sub-paragraph (2) must—

a

specify the arrangements (the “specified arrangements”) and the tax advantage (the “specified advantage”) to which the notice relates,

b

inform T of the period under paragraph 2 for making a proposal.

2

1

T has 30 days beginning with the day on which the notice under paragraph 1 is given to propose to HMRC that it—

a

should give T a notice under paragraph 3 of Schedule 43 in respect of the arrangements to which the notice under paragraph 1 relates, and

b

should not proceed with the proposal to make a generic referral to the GAAR Advisory Panel in respect of those arrangements.

2

If a proposal is made in accordance with sub-paragraph (1) a designated HMRC officer must consider it.

Generic referral

3

1

This paragraph applies where a designated HMRC officer has given notices to the notified taxpayers in accordance with paragraph 1(2).

2

If none of the notified taxpayers has made a proposal under paragraph 2 by the end of the 30 day period mentioned in that paragraph, the officer must make a referral to the GAAR Advisory Panel in respect of the notified taxpayers and the arrangements which are specified arrangements in relation to them.

3

If at least one of the notified taxpayers makes a proposal in accordance with paragraph 2, the designated HMRC officer must, after the end of that 30 day period, decide whether to—

a

give a notice under paragraph 3 of Schedule 43 in respect of one set of tax arrangements in the relevant pool, or

b

make a referral to the GAAR Advisory Panel in respect of the tax arrangements in the relevant pool.

4

A referral under this paragraph is a “generic referral”.

4

1

If a generic referral is made to the GAAR Advisory Panel, the designated HMRC officer must at the same time provide it with—

a

a general statement of the material characteristics of the specified arrangements, and

b

a declaration that—

i

the statement under paragraph (a) is applicable to all the specified arrangements, and

ii

as far as HMRC is aware, nothing which is material to the GAAR Advisory Panel's consideration of the matter has been omitted.

2

The general statement under sub-paragraph (1)(a) must—

a

contain a factual description of the tax arrangements;

b

set out HMRC's view as to whether the tax arrangements accord with established practice (when the arrangements were entered into);

c

explain why it is the designated HMRC officer's view that a tax advantage of the nature described in the statement and arising from tax arrangements having the characteristics described in the statement would be a tax advantage arising from arrangements that are abusive;

d

set out any matters the designated officer is aware of which may suggest that any view of HMRC or the designated HMRC officer expressed in the general statement is not correct;

e

set out any other matters which the designated officer considers are required for the purposes of the exercise of the GAAR Advisory Panel's functions under paragraph 6.

5

If a generic referral is made the designated HMRC officer must at the same time give each of the notified taxpayers a notice which—

a

specifies that a generic referral is being made, and

b

is accompanied by a copy of the statement given to the GAAR Advisory Panel in accordance with paragraph 4(1)(a).

Decision of GAAR Advisory Panel and opinion notices

6

1

If a generic referral is made to the GAAR Advisory Panel under paragraph 3, the Chair must arrange for a sub-panel consisting of 3 members of the GAAR Advisory Panel (one of whom may be the Chair) to consider it.

2

The sub-panel must produce—

a

one opinion notice stating the joint opinion of all the members of the sub-panel, or

b

two or three opinion notices which taken together state the opinions of all the members.

3

The sub-panel must give a copy of the opinion notice or notices to the designated HMRC officer.

4

An opinion notice is a notice which states that in the opinion of the members of the sub-panel, or one or more of those members—

a

the entering into and carrying out of tax arrangements such as are described in the general statement under paragraph 4(1)(a) is a reasonable course of action in relation to the relevant tax provisions,

b

the entering into or carrying out of such tax arrangements is not a reasonable course of action in relation to the relevant tax provisions, or

c

it is not possible, on the information available, to reach a view on that matter,

and the reasons for that opinion.

5

In forming their opinions for the purposes of sub-paragraph (4) members of the sub-panel must—

a

have regard to all the matters set out in the statement under paragraph 4(1)(a),

b

assume (unless the contrary is stated in the statement under paragraph 4(1)(a)) that the tax arrangements do not form part of any other arrangements,

c

have regard to the matters mentioned in paragraphs (a) to (c) of section 207(2), and

d

take account of subsections (4) to (6) of section 207.

6

For the purposes of the giving of an opinion under this paragraph, the arrangements are to be assumed to be tax arrangements.

7

In this Part, a reference to any opinion of the GAAR Advisory Panel in respect of a generic referral of any tax arrangements is a reference to the contents of any opinion notice given in relation to a generic referral in respect of the arrangements.

Notice of right to make representations

7

1

Where a designated HMRC officer is given an opinion notice (or opinion notices) under paragraph 6, the officer must give each of the notified taxpayers a copy of the opinion notice (or notices) and a written notice which—

a

explains the notified taxpayer's right to make representations falling within sub-paragraph (2), and

b

sets out the period in which those representations may be made.

2

A notified taxpayer (“T”) who is given a notice under sub-paragraph (1) has 30 days beginning with the day on which the notice is given to make representations in any of the following categories—

a

representations that no tax advantage has arisen from the specified arrangements;

b

representations that T has already been given a notice under paragraph 6 of Schedule 43A in relation to the specified arrangements;

c

representations that any matter set out in the statement under paragraph 4(1)(a) is materially inaccurate as regards the specified arrangements (having regard to all circumstances which would be relevant in accordance with section 207 to a determination of whether the tax arrangements in question are abusive).

Notice of final decision after considering opinion of GAAR Advisory Panel

8

1

A designated HMRC officer who has received a copy of a notice or notices under paragraph 6(3) in respect of a generic referral must consider the case of each notified taxpayer in accordance with sub-paragraph (2).

2

The officer must, having considered—

a

any opinion of the GAAR Advisory Panel about the matters referred to it, and

b

any representations made by the notified taxpayer under paragraph 7,

give to the notified taxpayer a written notice setting out whether the specified advantage is to be counteracted under the general anti-abuse rule.

3

If the notice states that a tax advantage is to be counteracted, it must also set out—

a

the adjustments required to give effect to the counteraction, and

b

if relevant, any steps that the taxpayer is required to take to give effect to it.

Notices may be given on assumption that tax advantage does arise

9

1

A designated HMRC officer may give a notice, or do anything else, under this Schedule where the officer considers that a tax advantage might have arisen to the person concerned.

2

Accordingly, any notice given by a designated HMRC officer under this Schedule may be expressed to be given on the assumption that a tax advantage does arise (without conceding that it does).

Power to amend

10

1

The Treasury may by regulations amend this Schedule (apart from this paragraph).

2

Regulations under sub-paragraph (1) may include—

a

any amendment of this Part that is appropriate in consequence of an amendment by virtue of sub-paragraph (1);

b

transitional provision.

3

Regulations under sub-paragraph (1) are to be made by statutory instrument.

4

A statutory instrument containing regulations under sub-paragraph (1) is subject to annulment in pursuance of a resolution of the House of Commons.

Panel given—

i

under paragraph 11 of Schedule 43 about the arrangements or any tax arrangements which are, as a result of a notice under paragraph 1 or 2 of Schedule 43A, the referred or (as the case may be) counteracted arrangements in relation to the arrangements, or

ii

under paragraph 6 of Schedule 43B in respect of a generic referral of the arrangements.

“designated HMRC officer” has the meaning given by paragraph 2 of Schedule 43;”.

“notice of binding” has the meaning given by paragraph 2(2) of Schedule 43A;

“pooling notice” has the meaning given by paragraph 1(4) of Schedule 43A;

“tax appeal” has the meaning given by paragraph 1A of Schedule 43;

“tax enquiry” has the meaning given by section 202(2) of FA 2014.

2

In this Part references to any “opinion of the GAAR Advisory Panel” about any tax arrangements are to be interpreted in accordance with paragraph 11(5) of Schedule 43.

3

In this Part references to tax arrangements which are “equivalent” to one another are to be interpreted in accordance with paragraph 11 of Schedule 43A.

3

The officer must, as soon as reasonably practicable after deciding whether or not the matter is to be referred to the GAAR Advisory Panel, give the taxpayer written notice of the decision.

6A

Where, by virtue of this section, a case falls within paragraph 4A of Schedule 43 to the Finance Act 2013 (referrals of single schemes: relevant corrective action) or paragraph 4 of Schedule 43A to that Act (pooled schemes: relevant corrective action)—

a

the person (“P”) mentioned in sub-paragraph (1) of that paragraph takes the “relevant corrective action” for the purposes of that paragraph if (and only if)—

i

in a case in which the tax advantage in question can be counteracted by making a payment to HMRC, P makes that payment and notifies HMRC that P has done so, or

ii

in any case, P takes all necessary action to enter into an agreement in writing with HMRC for the purpose of relinquishing the tax advantage, and

b

accordingly, sub-paragraphs (2) to (8) of that paragraph do not apply.

12

See section 10A for further modifications of Part 5 of the Finance Act 2013.

10AApplication of GAAR in relation to penalties

1

For the purposes of this section a penalty under section 212A of the Finance Act 2013 is a “relevant NICs-related penalty” so far as the penalty relates to a tax advantage in respect of relevant contributions.

2

A relevant NICs-related penalty may be recovered as if it were an amount of relevant contributions which is due and payable.

3

Section 117A of the Social Security Administration Act 1992 or (as the case may be) section 111A of the Social Security Administration (Northern Ireland) Act 1992 (issues arising in proceedings: contributions etc) has effect in relation to proceedings before a court for recovery of a relevant NICs-related penalty as if the assessment of the penalty were a NICs decision as to whether the person is liable for the penalty.

4

Accordingly, paragraph 5(4)(b) of Schedule 43C to the Finance Act 2013 (assessment of penalty to be enforced as if it were an assessment to tax) does not apply in relation to a relevant NICs-related penalty.

5

In the application of Schedule 43C to the Finance Act 2013 in relation to a relevant NICs-related penalty, paragraph 9(5) has effect as if the reference to an appeal against an assessment to the tax concerned were to an appeal against a NICs decision.

6

In paragraph 8 of that Schedule (aggregate penalties), references to a “relevant penalty provision” include—

a

any provision mentioned in sub-paragraph (5) of that paragraph, as applied in relation to any class of national insurance contributions by regulations (whenever made);

b

section 98A of the Taxes Management Act 1970, as applied in relation to any class of national insurance contributions by regulations (whenever made);

c

any provision in regulations made by the Treasury under which a penalty can be imposed in respect of any class of national insurance contributions.

7

The Treasury may by regulations—

a

disapply, or modify the effect of, subsection (6)(a) or (b);

b

modify paragraph 8 of Schedule 43C to the Finance Act 2013 as it has effect in relation to a relevant penalty provision by virtue of subsection (6)(b) or (c).

8

Section 175(3) to (5) of SSCBA 1992 (various supplementary powers) applies to a power to make regulations conferred by subsection (7).

9

Regulations under subsection (7) must be made by statutory instrument.

10

A statutory instrument containing regulations under subsection (7) is subject to annulment in pursuance of a resolution of either House of Parliament.

11

In this section “NICs decision” means a decision under section 8 of the Social Security Contributions (Transfer of Functions, etc) Act 1999 or Article 7 of the Social Security Contributions (Transfer of Functions, etc) (Northern Ireland) Order 1999 (SI 1999/671).

12

In this section “relevant contributions” means the following contributions under Part 1 of SSCBA 1992 or Part 1 of SSCB(NI)A 1992—

a

Class 1 contributions;

b

Class 1A contributions;

c

Class 1B contributions;

d

Class 2 contributions which must be paid but in relation to which section 11A of the Act in question (application of certain provisions of the Income Tax Acts in relation to Class 2 contributions under section 11(2) of that Act) does not apply.

d

a notice has been given under paragraph 8(2) or 9(2) of Schedule 43A to FA 2013 (notice of final decision after considering Panel's opinion about referred or counteracted arrangements) in relation to the asserted advantage or part of it and the chosen arrangements (or is so given at the same time as the accelerated payment notice) in a case where the stated opinion of at least two of the members of the sub-panel of the GAAR Advisory Panel about the other arrangements (see subsection (8)) was as set out in paragraph 11(3)(b) of Schedule 43 to FA 2013;

e

a notice under paragraph 8(2) of Schedule 43B to FA 2013 (GAAR: generic referral of tax arrangements) has been given in relation to the asserted advantage or part of it and the chosen arrangements (or is so given at the same time as the accelerated payment notice) in a case where the stated opinion of at least two of the members of the sub-panel of the GAAR Advisory Panel which considered the generic referral in respect of those arrangements under paragraph 6 of Schedule 43B to FA 2013 was as set out in paragraph 6(4)(b) of that Schedule.

8

In subsection (4)(d) “other arrangements” means—

a

in relation to a notice under paragraph 8(2) of Schedule 43A to FA 2013, the referred arrangements (as defined in that paragraph);

b

in relation to a notice under paragraph 9(2) of that Schedule, the counteracted arrangements (as defined in paragraph 2 of that Schedule).

5A

This subsection applies to any conduct—

a

in relation to which there has been given—

i

an opinion notice under paragraph 6(4)(b) of Schedule 43B to FA 2013 (GAAR advisory panel: opinion that such conduct unreasonable) stating the joint opinion of all the members of a sub-panel arranged under that paragraph, or

ii

one or more such notices stating the opinions of at least two members of such a sub-panel, and

b

in relation to which there has been given a notice under paragraph 8 of that Schedule (HMRC final decision on tax advantage) stating that a tax advantage is to be counteracted.

5B

For the purposes of subsection (5), any opinions of members of the GAAR advisory panel which must be considered before a notice is given under paragraph 8 or 9 of Schedule 43A to FA 2013 (opinions about the lead arrangements) are taken to relate to the conduct to which the notice relates.

d

the relevant partner in question has been given a notice under paragraph 8(2) or 9(2) of Schedule 43A to FA 2013 (notice of final decision after considering Panel's opinion about referred or counteracted arrangements) in respect of any tax advantage resulting from the asserted advantage or part of it and the chosen arrangements (or is given such a notice at the same time as the partner payment notice) in a case where the stated opinion of at least two of the members of the sub-panel of the GAAR Advisory Panel about the other arrangements (see sub-paragraph (7)) was as set out in paragraph 11(3)(b) of Schedule 43 to FA 2013;

e

the relevant partner in question has been given a notice under paragraph 8(2) of Schedule 43B to FA 2013 (GAAR: generic referral of arrangements) in respect of any tax advantage resulting from the asserted advantage or part of it and the chosen arrangements (or is given such a notice at the same time as the partner payment notice) in a case where the stated opinion of at least two of the members of the sub-panel of the GAAR Advisory Panel which considered the generic referral in respect of those arrangements was as set out in paragraph 6(4)(b) of that Schedule.

7

Other arrangements” means—

a

in relation to a notice under paragraph 8(2) of Schedule 43A to FA 2013, the referred arrangements (as defined in that paragraph);

b

in relation to a notice under paragraph 9(2) of that Schedule, the counteracted arrangements (as defined in paragraph 2 of that Schedule).

212APenalty

1

A person (P) is liable to pay a penalty if—

a

P has been given a notice under—

i

paragraph 12 of Schedule 43,

ii

paragraph 8 or 9 of Schedule 43A, or

iii

paragraph 8 of Schedule 43B,

stating that a tax advantage arising from particular tax arrangements is to be counteracted,

b

a tax document has been given to HMRC on the basis that the tax advantage arises to P from those arrangements,

c

that document was given to HMRC—

i

by P, or

ii

by another person in circumstances where P knew, or ought to have known, that the other person gave the document on the basis mentioned in paragraph (c), and

d

the tax advantage has been counteracted by the making of adjustments under section 209.

2

The penalty is 60% of the value of the counteracted advantage.

3

Schedule 43C—

a

gives the meaning of “the value of the counteracted advantage”, and

b

makes other provision in relation to penalties under this section.

4

In this section “tax document” means any return, claim or other document submitted in compliance (or purported compliance) with any provision of, or made under, an Act.

5

In this section the reference to giving a tax document to HMRC is to be interpreted in accordance with paragraph 11(g) and (h) of Schedule 43C.

SCHEDULE 43CPenalty under section 212A: supplementary provision

Value of the counteracted advantage: introduction

1

Paragraphs 2 to 4 set out how to calculate the “value of the counteracted advantage” for the purposes of section 212A.

Value of the counteracted advantage: basic rule

2

1

The “value of the counteracted advantage” is the additional amount due or payable in respect of tax as a result of the counteraction mentioned in section 212A(1)(c).

2

The reference in sub-paragraph (1) to the additional amount due and payable includes a reference to—

a

an amount payable to HMRC having erroneously been paid by way of repayment of tax, and

b

an amount which would be repayable by HMRC if the counteraction were not made.

3

The following are ignored in calculating the value of the counteracted advantage—

a

group relief, and

b

any relief under section 458 of CTA 2010 (relief in respect of repayment etc of loan) which is deferred under subsection (5) of that section.

4

For the purposes of this paragraph consequential adjustments under section 210 are regarded as part of the counteraction in question.

5

If the counteraction affects the person's liability to two or more taxes, the taxes concerned are to be considered together for the purpose of determining the value of the counteracted advantage.

6

This paragraph is subject to paragraphs 3 and 4.

Value of counteracted advantage: losses

3

1

To the extent that the tax advantage mentioned in section 212A(1)(b) (“the tax advantage”) resulted in the wrong recording of a loss for the purposes of direct tax and the loss has been wholly used to reduce the amount due or payable in respect of tax, the value of the counteracted advantage is determined in accordance with paragraph 2.

2

To the extent that the tax advantage resulted in the wrong recording of a loss for purposes of direct tax and the loss has not been wholly used to reduce the amount due or payable in respect of tax, the value of the counteracted advantage is—

a

the value under paragraph 2 of so much of the tax advantage as results (or would in the absence of the counteraction result) from the part (if any) of the loss which was used to reduce the amount due or payable in respect of tax, plus

b

10% of the part of the loss not so used.

3

Sub-paragraphs (1) and (2) apply both—

a

to a case where no loss would have been recorded but for the tax advantage, and

b

to a case where a loss of a different amount would have been recorded (but in that case sub-paragraphs (1) and (2) apply only to the difference between the amount recorded and the true amount).

4

To the extent that the tax advantage creates or increases (or would in the absence of the counteraction create or increase) an aggregate loss recorded for a group of companies—

a

the value of the counteracted advantage is calculated in accordance with this paragraph, and

b

in applying paragraph 2 in accordance with sub-paragraphs (1) and (2), group relief may be taken into account (despite paragraph 2(3)).

5

To the extent that the tax advantage results (or would in the absence of the counteraction result) in a loss, the value of it is nil where, because of the nature of the loss or the person's circumstances, there was no reasonable prospect of the loss being used to support a claim to reduce a tax liability (of any person).

Value of counteracted advantage: deferred tax

4

1

To the extent that the tax advantage mentioned in section 212A is a deferral of tax, the value of the counteracted advantage is—

a

25% of the amount of the deferred tax for each year of the deferral, or

b

a percentage of the amount of the deferred tax, for each separate period of deferral of less than a year, equating to 25% per year,

or, if less, 100% of the amount of the deferred tax.

2

This paragraph does not apply to a case to the extent that paragraph 3 applies.

Assessment of penalty

5

1

Where a person is liable for a penalty under section 212A, HMRC must assess the penalty.

2

Where HMRC assess the penalty, HMRC must—

a

notify the person who is liable for the penalty, and

b

state in the notice a tax period in respect of which the penalty is assessed.

3

A penalty under this paragraph must be paid before the end of the period of 30 days beginning with the day on which notification of the penalty is issued.

4

An assessment—

a

is to be treated for procedural purposes as if it were an assessment to tax,

b

may be enforced as if it were an assessment to tax, and

c

may be combined with an assessment to tax.

5

An assessment of a penalty under this paragraph must be made before the end of the period of 12 months beginning with—

a

the end of the appeal period for the assessment which gave effect to the counteraction mentioned in section 212A(1)(b), or

b

if there is no assessment within paragraph (a), the date (or the latest of the dates) on which that counteraction becomes final.

6

The reference in sub-paragraph (5)(b) to the counteraction becoming final is to be interpreted in accordance with section 210(8).

Alteration of assessment of penalty

6

1

After notification of an assessment has been given to a person under paragraph 5(2), the assessment may not be altered except in accordance with this paragraph or paragraph 7, or on appeal.

2

A supplementary assessment may be made in respect of a penalty if an earlier assessment operated by reference to an underestimate of the value of the counteracted advantage.

3

An assessment may be revised as necessary if it operated by reference to an overestimate of the value of the counteracted advantage.

Revision of assessment following consequential relieving adjustment

7

1

Sub-paragraph (2) applies where a person—

a

is notified under section 210(7) of a consequential adjustment relating to a counteraction under section 209, and

b

an assessment to a penalty in respect of that counteraction of which the person has been notified under paragraph 5(2) does not take account of that consequential adjustment.

2

HMRC must make any alterations of the assessment that appear to HMRC to be just and reasonable in connection with the consequential amendment.

3

Alterations under this paragraph may be made despite any time limit imposed by or under an enactment.

Aggregate penalties

8

1

Sub-paragraph (3) applies where—

a

two or more penalties are incurred by the same person and fall to be determined by reference to an amount of tax to which that person is chargeable,

b

one of those penalties is incurred under section 212A, and

c

one or more of the other penalties are incurred under a relevant penalty provision.

2

But sub-paragraph (3) does not apply if section 212(2) of FA 2014 (follower notices: aggregate penalties) applies in relation to the amount of tax in question.

3

The aggregate of the amounts of the penalties mentioned in subsection (1)(b) and (c), so far as determined by reference to that amount of tax, must not exceed—

a

the relevant percentage of that amount, or

b

in a case where at least one of the penalties is under paragraph 5(2)(b) of, or sub-paragraph (3)(b), (4)(b) or (5)(b) of paragraph 6 of, Schedule 55 to FA 2009, £300 (if greater).

4

In the application of section 97A of TMA 1970 (multiple penalties) no account shall be taken of a penalty under section 212A.

5

“Relevant penalty provision” means—

a

Schedule 24 to FA 2007 (penalties for errors),

b

Schedule 41 to FA 2008 (penalties: failure to notify etc),

c

Schedule 55 to FA 2009 (penalties for failure to make returns etc), or

d

Part 5 of Schedule 18 to FA 2016 (penalty under serial tax avoidance regime).

6

“The relevant percentage” means—

a

200% in a case where at least one of the penalties is determined by reference to the percentage in—

i

paragraph 4(4)(c) of Schedule 24 to FA 2007,

ii

paragraph 6(4)(a) of Schedule 41 to FA 2008, or

iii

paragraph 6(3A)(c) of Schedule 55 to FA 2009,

b

150% in a case where paragraph (a) does not apply and at least one of the penalties is determined by reference to the percentage in—

i

paragraph 4(3)(c) of Schedule 24 to FA 2007,

ii

paragraph 6(3)(a) of Schedule 41 to FA 2008, or

iii

paragraph 6(3A)(b) of Schedule 55 to FA 2009,

c

140% in a case where neither paragraph (a) nor paragraph (b) applies and at least one of the penalties is determined by reference to the percentage in—

i

paragraph 4(4)(b) of Schedule 24 to FA 2007,

ii

paragraph 6(4)(b) of Schedule 41 to FA 2008, or

iii

paragraph 6(4A)(c) of Schedule 55 to FA 2009,

d

105% in a case where at none of paragraphs (a), (b) and (c) applies and at least one of the penalties is determined by reference to the percentage in—

i

paragraph 4(3)(b) of Schedule 24 to FA 2007,

ii

paragraph 6(3)(b) of Schedule 41 to FA 2008, or

iii

paragraph 6(4A)(b) of Schedule 55 to FA 2009, and

e

in any other case, 100%.

Appeal against penalty

9

1

A person may appeal against—

a

the imposition of a penalty under section 212A, or

b

the amount assessed under paragraph 5.

2

An appeal under sub-paragraph (1)(a) may only be made on the grounds that the arrangements were not abusive or there was no tax advantage to be counteracted.

3

An appeal under sub-paragraph (1)(b) may only be made on the grounds that the assessment was based on an overestimate of the value of the counteracted advantage (whether because the estimate was made by reference to adjustments which were not just and reasonable or for any other reason).

4

An appeal under this paragraph must be made within the period of 30 days beginning with the day on which notification of the penalty is given under paragraph 5(2).

5

An appeal under this paragraph is to be treated in the same way as an appeal against an assessment to the tax concerned (including by the application of any provision about bringing the appeal by notice to HMRC, about HMRC's review of the decision or about determination of the appeal by the First-tier Tribunal or Upper Tribunal).

6

Sub-paragraph (5) does not apply—

a

so as to require a person to pay a penalty before an appeal against the assessment of the penalty is determined, or

b

in respect of any other matter expressly provided for by this Part.

7

On an appeal against the penalty the tribunal may affirm or cancel HMRC's decision.

8

On an appeal against the amount of the penalty the tribunal may—

a

affirm HMRC's decision, or

b

substitute for HMRC's decision another decision that HMRC has power to make.

9

In this paragraph “tribunal” means the First-tier Tribunal or Upper Tribunal (as appropriate by virtue of sub-paragraph (5)).

Mitigation of penalties

10

1

The Commissioners may in their discretion mitigate a penalty under section 212A, or stay or compound any proceedings for such a penalty.

2

They may also, after judgment, further mitigate or entirely remit the penalty.

Interpretation

11

In this Schedule—

a

a reference to an “assessment” to tax is to be interpreted, in relation to inheritance tax, as a reference to a determination;

b

“direct tax” means—

i

income tax,

ii

capital gains tax,

iii

corporation tax (including any amount chargeable as if it were corporation tax or treated as corporation tax),

iv

petroleum revenue tax, and

v

diverted profits tax;

c

a reference to a loss includes a reference to a charge, expense, deficit and any other amount which may be available for, or relied on to claim, a deduction or relief;

d

a reference to a repayment of tax includes a reference to allowing a credit against tax or to a payment of a corporation tax credit;

e

“corporation tax credit” means—

i

an R&D tax credit under Chapter 2 or 7 of Part 13 of CTA 2009,

ii

an R&D expenditure credit under Chapter 6A of Part 3 of CTA 2009,

iii

a land remediation tax credit or life assurance company tax credit under Chapter 3 or 4 respectively of Part 14 of CTA 2009,

iv

a film tax credit under Chapter 3 of Part 15 of CTA 2009,

v

a television tax credit under Chapter 3 of Part 15A of CTA 2009,

vi

a video game tax credit under Chapter 3 of Part 15B of CTA 2009,

vii

a theatre tax credit under section 1217K of CTA 2009,

viii

an orchestra tax credit under Chapter 3 of Part 15D of CTA 2009, or

ix

a first-year tax credit under Schedule A1 to CAA 2001;

f

“tax period” means a tax year, accounting period or other period in respect of which tax is charged;

g

a reference to giving a document to HMRC includes a reference to communicating information to HMRC in any form and by any method (whether by post, fax, email, telephone or otherwise),

h

a reference to giving a document to HMRC includes a reference to making a statement or declaration in a document.

8

Where a matter is referred to the GAAR Advisory Panel under paragraph 5 or 6 of Schedule 43, the taxpayer (as defined in paragraph 3 of that Schedule) must not make any GAAR-related adjustments in relation to the taxpayer's tax affairs in the period (the “closed period”) which—

a

begins with the 31st day after the end of the 45 day period mentioned in paragraph 4(1) of that Schedule, and

b

ends immediately before the day on which the taxpayer is given the notice under paragraph 12 of Schedule 43 (notice of final decision after considering opinion of GAAR Advisory Panel).

9

Where a person has been given a pooling notice or a notice of binding under Schedule 43A in relation to any tax arrangements, the person must not make any GAAR-related adjustments in the period (“the closed period”) that—

a

begins with the 31st day after that on which that notice is given, and

b

ends—

i

in the case of a pooling notice, immediately before the day on which the person is given a notice under paragraph 8(2) or 9(2) of Schedule 43A, or a notice under paragraph 8(2) of Schedule 43B, in relation to the tax arrangements (notice of final decision after considering opinion of GAAR Advisory Panel), or

ii

in the case of a notice of binding, with the 30th day after the day on which the notice is given.

10

In this section “GAAR-related adjustments” means—

a

for the purposes of subsection (8), adjustments which give effect (wholly or in part) to the proposed counteraction set out in the notice under paragraph 3 of Schedule 43;

b

for the purposes of subsection (9), adjustments which give effect (wholly or partly) to the proposed counteraction set out in the notice of pooling or binding (as the case may be).

1AMeaning of “tax appeal”

In this Part “tax appeal” means—

a

an appeal under section 31 of TMA 1970 (income tax: appeals against amendments of self-assessment, amendments made by closure notices under section 28A or 28B of that Act, etc), including an appeal under that section by virtue of regulations under Part 11 of ITEPA 2003 (PAYE),

b

an appeal under paragraph 9 of Schedule 1A to TMA 1970 (income tax: appeals against amendments made by closure notices under paragraph 7(2) of that Schedule, etc),

c

an appeal under section 705 of ITA 2007 (income tax: appeals against counteraction notices),

d

an appeal under paragraph 34(3) or 48 of Schedule 18 to FA 1998 (corporation tax: appeals against amendment of a company's return made by closure notice, assessments other than self-assessments, etc),

e

an appeal under section 750 of CTA 2010 (corporation tax: appeals against counteraction notices),

f

an appeal under section 222 of IHTA 1984 (appeals against HMRC determinations) other than an appeal made by a person against a determination in respect of a transfer of value at a time when a tax enquiry is in progress in respect of a return made by that person in respect of that transfer,

g

an appeal under paragraph 35 of Schedule 10 to FA 2003 (stamp duty land tax: appeals against amendment of self-assessment, discovery assessments, etc),

h

an appeal under paragraph 35 of Schedule 33 to FA 2013 (annual tax on enveloped dwellings: appeals against amendment of self-assessment, discovery assessments, etc),

i

an appeal under paragraph 14 of Schedule 2 to the Oil Taxation Act 1975 (petroleum revenue tax: appeal against assessment, determination etc),

j

an appeal under section 102 of FA 2015 (diverted profits tax: appeal against charging notice etc),

k

an appeal under section 114 of FA 2016 (apprenticeship levy: appeal against an assessment), or

l

an appeal against any determination of—

i

an appeal within paragraphs (a) to (k), or

ii

an appeal within this paragraph.

of—

i

paragraphs 5 and 6, and

ii

sections 209(8) and (9) and 212A.

4ACorrective action by taxpayer

1

If the taxpayer takes the relevant corrective action before the beginning of the closed period mentioned in section 209(8), the matter is not to be referred to the GAAR Advisory Panel.

2

For the purposes of this Schedule the “relevant corrective action” is taken if (and only if) the taxpayer takes the steps set out in sub-paragraphs (3) and (4).

3

The first step is that—

a

the taxpayer amends a return or claim to counteract the tax advantage specified in the notice under paragraph 3, or

b

if the taxpayer has made a tax appeal (by notifying HMRC or otherwise) on the basis that the tax advantage specified in the notice under paragraph 3 arises from the tax arrangements specified in that notice, the taxpayer takes all necessary action to enter into an agreement with HMRC (in writing) for the purpose of relinquishing that advantage.

4

The second step is that the taxpayer notifies HMRC—

a

that the taxpayer has taken the first step, and

b

of any additional amount which has or will become due and payable in respect of tax by reason of the first step being taken.

5

Where the taxpayer takes the first step described in sub-paragraph (3)(b), HMRC may proceed as if the taxpayer had not taken the relevant corrective action if the taxpayer fails to enter into the written agreement.

6

In determining the additional amount which has or will become due and payable in respect of tax for the purposes of sub-paragraph (4)(b), it is to be assumed that, where the taxpayer takes the necessary action as mentioned in sub-paragraph (3)(b), the agreement is then entered into.

7

No enactment limiting the time during which amendments may be made to returns or claims operates to prevent the taxpayer taking the first step mentioned in sub-paragraph (3)(a) before the tax enquiry is closed (whether or not before the specified time).

8

No appeal may be brought, by virtue of a provision mentioned in sub-paragraph (9), against an amendment made by a closure notice in respect of a tax enquiry to the extent that the amendment takes into account an amendment made by the taxpayer to a return or claim in taking the first step mentioned in sub-paragraph (3)(a).

9

The provisions are—

a

section 31(1)(b) or (c) of TMA 1970,

b

paragraph 9 of Schedule 1A to TMA 1970,

c

paragraph 34(3) of Schedule 18 to FA 1998,

d

paragraph 35(1)(b) of Schedule 10 to FA 2003, and

e

paragraph 35(1)(b) of Schedule 33 to FA 2013.

4B

Paragraphs 5 and 6 apply if the taxpayer does not take the relevant corrective action (see paragraph 4A) by the beginning of the closed period mentioned in section 209(8).

, and

d

Schedule 43C to FA 2013 (as amended by FA 2016).

20General anti-abuse rule: aggregate penalties

1

In Schedule 43C to FA 2013 (general anti-abuse rule: supplementary provision about penalty), sub-paragraph (6) of paragraph 8 is amended as follows.

2

After paragraph (b) insert—

ba

125% in a case where neither paragraph (a) nor paragraph (b) applies and at least one of the penalties is determined by reference to the percentage in—

i

paragraph 4(2)(c) of Schedule 24 to FA 2007,

ii

paragraph 6(2)(a) of Schedule 41 to FA 2008,

iii

paragraph 6(3A)(a) of Schedule 55 to FA 2009,

3

In sub-paragraph (c) for “neither paragraph (a) nor paragraph (b) applies” substitute “none of paragraphs (a) to (ba) applies.

4

In sub-paragraph (d) for “none of paragraphs (a), (b) and (c) applies” substitute “none of paragraphs (a) to (c) applies