Local MP Caroline Dinenage has called upon the Government to take strong action to tackle aggressive tax avoidance during Questions to the Chancellor today.
Under the previous Labour Government the gulf between the richest and poorest increased, with Labour missing their own self-imposed targets.
Caroline reiterated the concerns held by many of her constituents and asked:
"My constituents in Gosport don't mind paying tax as long as everyone pays their fair share. Since the tax gap widened under the previous government, will he confirm that this Government is committed to tackling all forms of aggressive tax avoidance and tax evasion?"
In response the Chancellor agreed and expressed his commitment to this approach. He said:
"The tax gap rose to £39 billion under the previous Labour Government. This coalition Government has dramatically increased the pressure on those who avoid and evade their taxes. As a result of our compliance and enforcement efforts tax revenues are £3 billion higher, than when we came to office."
Caroline also welcomed the Chancellor's announcement that HMRC have raised £500 million in extra tax from high-net-worth individuals and hopes that MPs from all sides of the House come together in support of these efforts.