Commentary on Sections Part 7 – General Anti-Avoidance Rule Section 81E TCMA - Adjustments to counteract tax advantages
94.This section provides WRA with the power to adjust the tax liability of a taxpayer who would otherwise benefit from a tax advantage in relation to the devolved taxes arising from an artificial tax avoidance arrangement. Subsection (1) provides that WRA may make any adjustments that it considers to be just and reasonable in order to counteract such a tax advantage. Subsection (2) makes clear that these adjustments may be made in respect of the devolved tax in relation to which a tax advantage has been gained, or in respect of any other devolved tax.
95.Subsection (3) requires that, where the adjustment relates to a tax return in respect of which there is an open enquiry, that adjustment is to be made by a closure notice. In all other cases, the adjustment is to be made by means of a WRA assessment (issued at any time). Before making any adjustment WRA must issue a notice of proposed counteraction, and then a final counteraction notice – this process, in particular, allows the relevant taxpayer to make written representations before any adjustment is made.