Recruitment law expert Lawspeed has this week issued a warning to recruiters ahead of the introduction of new corporate offences for failing to prevent the facilitation of tax evasion, both in the UK and abroad under the Criminal Finances Act 2017, which comes into effect this Saturday.

Lawspeed explains provisions, contained within sections 44-52 of the Act, which apply to all companies and partnerships, whatever their size, now impose criminal liability on companies simply for failing to take action to prevent tax evasion offences.

Lawspeed warns that recruiters may think the rules have nothing to do with them, but if they operate a payroll or use a payroll provider they are at risk of committing a criminal offence.

Employment lawyers Recruiter has spoken to back up Lawspeed’s assessment and explain how agencies falling foul of the rules run the risk of criminal convictions and unlimited fines.

To find out why ignoring the new rules could lead to fines, reputational damage and possible conviction, click here to read about the expert advice from the employment lawyers.

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