Last updated 11:38, Monday, 21 April 2008

CUMBRIA Chamber of Commerce has launched a service which helps firms defend themselves against an Inland Revenue tax investigation.

Under new self-assessment rules, the taxman no longer needs a reason to investigate businesses and thousands are probed each year.

Defending against an investigation can cost between £2,000 to £3,000 in accountancy fees alone.

The chamber has now launched a service with DGT Consultants Limited to help.

Suzanne Caldwell, enterprise development manager for Cumbria Chamber of Commerce and Industry said: “As a chamber we are constantly looking to introduce new member services which add value to membership.

“As tax investigations are on the increase, we decided to provide help and support for our members. Most businesses would struggle to deal with an investigation. By utilising this member service all of the worry and stress is taken away and dealt with by specialists who know how investigations work.”

For more information call Cumbria Chamber of Commerce and Industry on 0845 226 0040 or see www.cumbriachamber.co.uk.