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The rights and responsibilities of individuals and businesses dealing with HMRC have been published in a draft consultation document.

It contains a one-page, draft Charter which sets out:

•  the role of HMRC;
•  what customers can expect from HMRC;
•  what HMRC expects of its customers; and
•  where customers can find information when things go wrong.

The consultation document, containing details of the Charter and seeking views on its contents, has been published on the HMRC website at: http://charterconsultation.hmrc.gov.uk .

Announcing its publication, HMRC Chief Executive Lesley Strathie said:

"Our new HMRC Charter will be designed to be straightforward, clear and easy to understand. Individuals and businesses will know exactly what they can expect from us and what we expect of them. As part of the consultation we would welcome comments and views from any individuals and businesses who deal with HMRC to help us create a simpler and more customer-focused system."

Welcoming the Charter, Financial Secretary to the Treasury Stephen Timms said:

"The Charter will put the relationship between HMRC and the public on a clear footing, helping to reduce misunderstandings and disputes. By clarifying what both parties should expect from each other the Charter will also help to save time and reduce costs for both HMRC and its customers."

The deadline for submitting comments is 12 May 2009.