Spencer West (referred to in this document as “the Firm”) is committed to responsible, transparent tax practices as part of our dedication to social and environmental impact. This tax strategy, aligned with Schedule 19 of the Finance Act 2016, applies to Spencer West LLP and its international-affiliated entities, outlining our approach to tax compliance, risk management, and engagement with HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) and other relevant tax authorities. Our tax practices align with our core values of integrity and our commitment to promoting sustainable and ethical business.
Commitment to Compliance and Social Responsibility
We are dedicated to full compliance with tax laws in all jurisdictions where Spencer West operates, paying the appropriate amount of tax in the right place and at the right time. Beyond legal compliance, we recognise our tax responsibilities as a core component of our social impact, helping to support the communities in which we operate. In line with our broader commitment to corporate social responsibility, our tax practices contribute to local and national economic well-being, reflecting our dedication to ethical business conduct.
Our Partners and staff across Spencer West are expected to adhere to applicable tax laws and to avoid any practices that could be perceived as aggressive or inappropriate tax planning. We seek to establish fair and transparent tax arrangements that align with both the spirit and the letter of the law.
Sustainable and Responsible Tax Planning
At Spencer West, our approach to tax planning is rooted in sustainability, ensuring that all tax arrangements support the Firm’s commercial activities while aligning with our commitment to responsible business. In structuring our activities, we apply relevant tax laws while taking advantage of available incentives, such as capital allowances and double tax relief, only where they are commercially justified and transparently disclosed.
Commercial Substance and Integrity
We pursue tax strategies that reflect the true economic and commercial substance of our business activities. The Firm does not engage in artificial or contrived tax arrangements. All decisions are guided by our ethical standards, our commitment to our clients, and our long-term reputation.
Sustainable Risk Management
Spencer West recognises the complexities that arise from operating in a diverse legal and tax landscape. We have established robust governance and oversight policies and procedures to identify, evaluate, and manage tax risks effectively, supporting our goal of compliance in every jurisdiction in which we operate. When faced with complex or uncertain tax matters, we seek advice from external tax professionals and, where appropriate, work directly with relevant tax authorities, including HMRC, to ensure clarity and compliance. This approach is part of our commitment to sustainable business practices and our responsibility to our clients, stakeholders, and communities.
Transparency and Cooperative Engagement with Tax Authorities
We value an open and constructive relationship with tax authorities, including HMRC, engaging in proactive communication and providing transparent disclosures about our tax matters. By engaging openly and constructively, we aim to resolve any differences of interpretation through dialogue and mutual respect.
Responsible Engagement and Reporting
In line with our commitment to promoting sustainable and ethical business, Spencer West commits to accurate, transparent reporting and timely responses to requests from tax authorities. Where our interpretations of tax laws differ, we work to resolve these differences transparently and fairly.
Governance and Oversight
Governance of tax matters within Spencer West is overseen by our Risk & Audit Committee, which reports to our Executive Leadership Team. Our Risk & Audit Committee working with a Tax Partner ensures that all tax matters are aligned with our strategy and responsible business principles, receiving guidance and oversight from our Executive Leadership Team. The Risk & Audit Committee and Executive Leadership Team ensure our tax policy aligns with Spencer West’s values and compliance standards.
Our tax policy and strategy are reviewed annually, or as significant changes in tax legislation occur, to ensure they remain relevant and reflective of our values and commitments.
This tax strategy is publicly available and applies to all jurisdictions where Spencer West operates. It reflects our commitment to sustainable and ethical tax practices, contributing to the economic health of the communities we serve.