In this episode of Deep Dive, we uncover the staggering £5.5 billion tax gap caused by evasion in the UK’s retail sector. Despite government crackdowns and new legislation, tax cheats continue to exploit loopholes, from online marketplaces dodging VAT to rogue directors using “phoenix” companies to escape liabilities.
Why has HMRC struggled to rein in tax evasion? Are weak enforcement, corporate loopholes, and outdated policies allowing fraudsters to thrive? We explore the findings of the latest Public Accounts Committee report, speaking with experts on financial crime, tax justice advocates, and policymakers to understand why billions are slipping through the cracks—and what needs to change.
Tune in as we follow the money, expose the gaps, and ask the big question: can HMRC ever truly close the tax evasion loophole?
