Minister promises black economy crackdown

The Treasury Minister has promised further efforts to track down workers who are paid cash-in-hand but do not declare their income to the tax man.

Eddie Teare MHK was asked in the Keys today about the loss to government coffers from the so-called black economy in the construction industry.

Michael MHK Alf Cannan wanted to know what's being done across government to ensure those involved in building projects do not escape paying tax.

Mr Teare could not say what sums are lost to the exchequer.

But he told Mr Cannan compliance officers in the Income tax Division and Customs and Excise are working with enforcement agencies in the Island to combat the problem.

The minister repeated a message he gave in last month's budget: