Mike Ashley, founder of Frasers Group, is embroiled in a tax data dispute with HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC).
- The High Court heard that Ashley was ‘stonewalled’ in his request for personal tax data.
- The dispute involves a demand for £13.6 million in additional taxes.
- HMRC admits to limited data protection breaches but is defending Ashley’s claim.
- The legal action arises after a failed bid for Ashley to become Boohoo CEO.
Mike Ashley, the prominent founder of Frasers Group, has found himself at the centre of a significant legal confrontation with HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC). The High Court has been informed that Ashley encountered a lack of cooperation, described as being ‘stonewalled’, when he sought access to personal data pertinent to an ongoing tax dispute.
The crux of this legal battle revolves around HMRC’s demand for an additional £13.6 million in taxes, which Ashley is now contesting. The billionaire’s legal team argues that there have been “extensive” breaches of data protection obligations on HMRC’s part. However, the tax authority acknowledges only a minor breach, setting the stage for a contested legal dispute.
This legal issue coincides with a recent development in the corporate sector where Ashley was involved in a strategic manoeuvre to become the CEO of Boohoo. Despite a public proposal set forth by Frasers Group advocating for his appointment to the dual roles of director and CEO, the position ultimately went to Dan Finley, the chief executive of Debenhams, as of 1 November.
Ashley has initiated legal proceedings against HMRC, asserting that his requests for personal data have been unjustly obstructed. This action signals the potential for a prolonged legal engagement, centring on the proper handling and disclosure of personal tax information, a matter of substantial consequence given the financial stakes involved.
The unfolding legal case underscores the complexities at the intersection of data protection and tax compliance.
