What does it mean to be a tax professional?

Taxation is resolutely apolitical; it has no allegiance to a political party. This has always been the case and, I hope, always will be.

That does not, however, prevent me being pleased that David Gauke has been reappointed as financial secretary to the Treasury, the minister with day-to-day responsibility for HMRC.

Gauke has, in his five years in the role, been widely respected within the tax profession – and, indeed, within the Revenue – for his commitment to a proper framework for the development of tax policy and, in particular, for a willingness to consult and take on board a range of views and opinions.

I am sure that, in the years to come, there will be plenty of opportunity for the profession to debate and challenge government views on tax policy. We may not always be successful, but I am confident that our voice will continue to be heard.

In his CTA address last week, Des Hudson, former chief executive of the Law Society, talked about what it means to be a member of a profession.

He commented on what he sees as a serious rift between the public’s view of the role of tax adviser within civil society and our own perception of our roles and responsibilities to clients.

A lively debate followed and strong views were expressed from the floor. (Taxation will report on the event in a future edition.)

Before the address, the new Chartered Institute of Taxation president, Chris Jones, launched Bridge the Gap, a joint campaign by the leading tax charities to raise funds to assist the most vulnerable members of society who are caught up in tax problems with which they cannot cope without help.

The campaign has my wholehearted support. Do visit the website, and consider making a donation.