How much clout does Parliament have?

**minestrone** · 22 October 2012, 10:37

I would be tempted to tell them to feck off although their brand reputation will be a killer for them if they do.

It is pretty embarrassing that the government have to get the company in to explain the tax laws despite having their accounts filed.

We all know it will descend into "do you think it is right that you pay so little tax" as if tax is some charity fund that should be paid into based on moral obligation.

I would take in a Tolley's tax guide and from the first question start at page 1, continue to the last page and refuse any interruption as I am explaining how UK taxation works.

**Old Hack** · 22 October 2012, 10:50

Originally posted by SimonMac View Post

Not in law making, I think I got that covered already, but when it comes to select committees (of which by my reckoning there is at least 70 over the two houses) calling people to give account in front of them?

Just reading how the CEO of Starbucks is being called in front of a committee to explain why his company paid no corporation tax for three years, I assume if he had done something wrong it would be the Police/HMRC he would be talking to, so can he therefore just tell them to go forth and do one?

Can't make people appear, and can't punish those who lie in front of them. I think some senior exec from Kraft refused to turn up to one. Anyone remember Galloway in front of the Senate in the States? Pretty much the same thing here. Apparently, they are looking at new laws to make it illegal to refuse, and to lie. But there are no current ones.

They're pretty much as good as tits on a bull.

**The Spartan** · 22 October 2012, 11:55

Originally posted by Old Hack View Post

They're pretty much as good as tits on a bull.

**LisaContractorUmbrella** · 22 October 2012, 11:55

Not much clout at all but the media have which is why they won't refuse the 'summons'

How much clout does Parliament have?