To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer how many audits of businesses were undertaken by HM Revenue and Customs in each of the last three years; and what proportion were of businesses classified as (a) low risk and (b) not low risk. (248554)

The total number of enquiries and interventions undertaken by HM Revenue and Customs in respect of direct taxes and VAT was:

The low risk relationships with businesses dealt with by our Large Business Service were only established during 2007-08 and therefore we are unable to provide a breakdown as requested.

The enquiry figures show a downward trend over the period as a result of better use of risk assessment. This reflects the department's strategy of deploying compliance resources to tackling areas of highest risk while reducing the burden on those who are compliant.

This approach has resulted in increases in additional liabilities secured from our compliance activities, details of which are published in our departmental autumn performance reports.