HMRC and SIA take action 31 March 2026

HMRC and SIA have reaffirmed their shared commitment to raising standards across the UK security sector, following a pivotal industry-wide event (on 26 February) hosted by HMRC. The session brought together security leaders, government specialists, and compliance experts to address persistent challenges and reinforce the sector’s responsibility to uphold integrity, legal labour practices and fair competition.

The security industry plays a vital role in both the UK economy and public safety. Ensuring that security personnel are paid correctly and that employers meet their PAYE obligations is central to:

• Creating a fair, level and competitive market
• Protecting workers from exploitation and labour abuse
• Strengthening professionalism and public trust
• Reducing opportunities for financial crime and abuse of government systems

During the event, HMRC and SIA highlighted significant progress achieved through their ongoing collaboration, led by HMRC’s Threat Response Unit. This partnership has:

• Increased workforce awareness of employment rights
• Driven a marked reduction in cash‑in‑hand and off‑record working practices
• Improved supply chain transparency
• Reduced opportunities for payroll fraud and tax evasion

A standout success has been the impact of HMRC’s letter campaign. This intervention has prompted widespread behavioural change and generated over £48.8 million in additional tax revenue, demonstrating the effectiveness of proactive, intelligence‑led, cross‑government action.

The partnership between HMRC and SIA forms a key part of the government’s wider strategy to build resilient, cross‑agency counter‑fraud capability. HMRC confirmed they will continue to work closely with SIA on targeted communications designed to:

• Reinforce compliance expectations
• Raise awareness of workers’ rights
• Ensure businesses understand and meet PAYE obligations
• Improve supply chain integrity
• Strengthen protections for frontline operatives

HMRC and SIA are driving a more transparent, compliant, and professional security industry, one that protects workers, supports legitimate businesses and upholds public trust.