The Spectator (1828) Limited
Our Approach to the Management of Tax
Financial Year 31 December 2023
This statement has been approved by the Board of Directors of The Spectator (1828) Limited (“The Spectator”).
Introduction
The Spectator is the head of a UK ‘sub-group’ (“the Group”) as defined in paragraph 11 (2) of Schedule 19 of the Finances Act 2016. This strategy is published on behalf of the Group in compliance with the duty under paragraph 19 of the schedule and in accordance with paragraph 20 thereof.
The Spectator was established in 1828 and is a weekly magazine with a core focus on political, literary, cultural and economic issues. It is the longest-lived current affairs magazine in history and the first magazine to publish 10,000 issues.
Approach to tax risk management and governance
The Spectator is committed to executing and managing its tax responsibilities with the highest integrity and complying with all applicable tax laws. The Spectator has appropriate governance, policies and processes in place to ensure its tax obligations are met from an operational and risk management perspective.
Its internal policies and processes facilitate the structured identification, assessment and management of tax risk. Responsibility for the day-to-day management of UK tax risk resides with the Chief Operating & Financial Officer.
Attitude towards tax planning
The Spectator manages its tax affairs to support the business, adopting an approach that preserves the commercial purpose of intended transactions whilst evaluating the use of appropriate tax strategies, including accessing tax incentives and reliefs. Key tax decisions are made by qualified accountants, with guidance from tax professionals, both third-party and those employed in the wider Group, with the appropriate knowledge and expertise.
The level of risk in relation to UK taxation that The Spectator is prepared to accept
The Spectator’s approach on tax policy is to maintain a low-risk tax profile both in the UK and in other tax jurisdictions.
Where applicable laws and regulations are subject to interpretation, giving rise to inevitable complexity and uncertainty, we seek appropriate assurance regarding the position taken from reputable third-party advisers. The Board of Directors has oversight over how tax risks are managed as well as ensuring there are appropriate controls.
Approach to dealing with tax authorities
The Group engages with HMRC on a real-time basis in a spirit of co-operative compliance. The Group works closely with HMRC, maintaining continual dialogue in an open, honest and transparent manner, acting fairly, responsibly and with integrity. We seek to resolve any errors or disputed matters through pro-active and transparent discussion and negotiation with HMRC.
Approved by the Board: 10th May 2023