HMRC's "Guilt of Being British" Event Sparks Controversy Amidst Customer Service Woes

HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) faced criticism after hosting a taxpayer-funded event titled "The Guilt of Being British" during working hours. The event, organized by HMRC's internal Race Network, aimed to explore themes of colonial history, dual identity, and the complexities of being South Asian and British. The session, held remotely, also promised insights into the career challenges faced by South Asian women, with the goal of helping staff share their stories.

The timing of the event, between 11 am and midday, during peak operating hours for a department already facing public scrutiny, drew strong reactions. Politicians, campaigners, and even some civil servants voiced their disapproval. Critics argued that the event undermined public trust in government services and questioned the use of public funds for such activities.

The controversy arose amidst ongoing concerns about HMRC's customer service performance. A recent report highlighted that HMRC answered only a fraction of taxpayer calls, falling short of its targets. Long wait times and frequent disconnections were common complaints, adding to the public's frustration.

The HMRC Race Network defended the session as part of its diversity and inclusion efforts, stating its aim was to provide a space for exploring identity and heritage. However, critics argued that such events blurred the lines between personal reflection and workplace politics, especially when held during work hours and funded by public money.

The controversy is part of a broader debate about the use of public funds for internal staff networks across government departments. Similar events, such as those hosted by NHS trusts, have also come under scrutiny. Calls for greater oversight of these networks and their activities are growing. HMRC responded by stating that the event was attended by a small percentage of staff and would not impact its ability to staff helplines.