Social Security Advisory Committee (SSAC) welcomes publication of the independent review of its tax credits advisory role

Welcoming the 9 June 2008 publication of the review, the Chairman of the SSAC said: “…this is a thorough, constructive and forward-looking review. We shall be working with HMRC and HMT to put its recommendations into effect as soon as possible ”.

Notes to editors:

Jointly commissioned with HMRC, the review examined the operation of the 2004 Memorandum of Understanding between the SSAC and HMRC under which the SSAC gives advice in confidence to Treasury ministers on Tax Credits, Child Benefit, Guardian’s Allowance and aspects of National Insurance.

The review has been placed in the libraries of both Houses of Parliament. The report is available on the SSAC website http://ssac.org.uk , and on the HMRC website . http://www.hmrc.gov.uk/menus/ssac-review.pdf . Copies may be requested from the SSAC Secretariat (0207 412 1506).

The SSAC is the main UK advisory body for all social security matters except those relating to industrial injuries, war pensions, occupational pensions, and National Insurance contributions. Most proposals for social security regulations have to be submitted to the SSAC before they are made. When the Committee reports on regulations, the report is laid before Parliament with the regulations and a statement from the Secretary of State responding to any recommendations the Committee has made.