Following reports that HMRC ha quadrupled its spend on private debt collectors since 2014, Emma said:

 

“I am concerned that HMRC has more than quadrupled its spending on private debt collectors, from £6.2m in 2014 to £26.3m in 2018. What is particularly worrying is the reported lack of communication between HMRC and debt collectors, meaning some people are chased for debts which have already been repaid.

 

“Instead of using debt collection agencies and bailiffs – who sometimes resort to aggressive tactics – HMRC should instead help rather than penalise people to pay off debts. Often small debts spiral out of control plunging people into greater debt.

 

“Debts should of course be repaid, but it is in everyone’s interest for any money owed to be repaid in a fair and sustainable way, which doesn’t push people further into debt.”