HMRC dismisses 179 staff for gross misconduct

HMRC has dismissed 179 staff members so far this year for gross misconduct. Data obtained under a freedom of information request by the Daily Telegraph also shows that this number represents an increase of 43% since 2020 and the highest number of dismissals in at least five years.

So far this year HMRC has dismissed 321 staff members: therefore the dismissals for gross misconduct represent over 50% of this figure. By way of comparison in 2020 only 28% (125) of all dismissals (441) were for gross misconduct.

 Gross misconduct which can lead to immediate dismissal includes behaviour like bullying theft intoxication damage to company property and gross negligence. At HMRC specifically it could also include the unlawful disclosure of sensitive taxpayer information or fraud involving the misuse of company systems.

The Taxation team contacted HMRC for...