on 1/1/03 5:39 pm, Mike Sheil:
>
> Subject: Capital computer purchases in the uk
>
> Francis Newman wrote:
>> There was some discussion recently about whether that also included
>> digital cameras (can't remember the answer) but although it wasn't long
>> ago a quick check shows it was before the advent of the new list
>> archive.
>
> Was part of that thread - the question of sigital cameras being regarded as
> computer peripherals is a grey area. Some people seem to feel that their tax
> inspector has allowed a 100% offset in the year of purchase.
>
Mike,
I suspect that as stand alone devices hand held digital cameras such as a
D1's are probably not included in this scheme. I believe the governments
rational behind the revenue offering tax discounts was to encourage business
to update it's office PC's and get up to date technology and therefore net
compatibility. ( probably had a letter from Mr Gates :).
> My accountant has now taken legal advice and has been advised by a leading
> tax barrister that whilst individual HMITs may have made such an allowance
> on one-off basis, there is no precedent in "case law" which apparently is
> what HMIT relies on when making decision applicable in all cases. And it is
> this case law which we need to establish in order to be able tio get a 100%
> allowance without debate.
>
I do believe the decision as to whether or not equipment you have purchased
( it has to be new ) is 100% tax offsetable is down to your local tax
inspector and his interpretaion of the rules. Not that I would suggest that
any one buy expensive equipment just to get tax relief, so if you think you
need it and the tax relief is relevant, I would suggest checking with your
local tax inspector before parting with your hard earned cash, I did and it
worked for me.
> Having made heavy digital purchases in this year I have decided that at the
> end of my current tax year [ March 2003 ] I will ensure that I make a very
> swift tax return with a claim for a 100% allowance and will take issue with
> any verdict other than such an allowance.
>
In all due respect Mike this is the wrong way around, for those considering
buying and requiring the tax back as part of their sums they must gain
confirmation from their local revenue office before purchase especialy if
there is any doubt about the interpretation of the rules and the type of
equipment being considered. I would say that any self contained digital
camera or printer that is not connected directly to a PC might come into
this grey area. I have not purchased these items so others on the list might
know better.
Regards
Sam Moxon
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