HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) has stamped out concerns raised by Bectu that it is planning a major clamp down on TV industry freelancer tax rules.

Broadcast understands that the trade union made contact with HMRC over widespread rumours the tax body was eyeing changes to its Film, Television and Production Industry Guidance Notes, which would potentially have had significant implications for all freelance TV staff.

It is thought Bectu was concerned about potential changes to working grades, which could have given some freelancers - in certain types of production roles - less control over their own accounts, meaning they could have lost out on the benefits of being self-employed.

There was also a fear that HMRC could have required all TV freelancers to pay income tax as they earn after just three months of working for one indie.

However, during conversations with Bectu this week, HMRC reassured union officials that it has no plans to make significant changes to tax rules. An HMRC spokesman added: “There is no specific crackdown on the broadcast or media industry in relation to PAYE (pay as you earn) and income tax.”

The issue comes against the backdrop of HMRC’s criminal investigation into Christopher Lunn & Company (CLAC). The tax body is also investigating the tax returns of CLAC’s 7,000 clients for potential irregularities.

One source said that if HMRC had made the changes that were rumoured, it would have been the “perfect tax storm” for TV freelancers.

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