HMRC Announces R&D Expert Advisory Panel
As promised in the Spring Budget of 2024, HMRC has recently announced the creation of the Research and Development Expert Advisory Panel (RDEAP). The panel will bring together independent experts to help shape HMRC’s approach to interpreting and communicating the R&D tax relief schemes.
It’s important to note that the panel will not assess or approve individual R&D claims, nor will it have access to taxpayer data. Its role is strictly advisory, offering insight into how innovation occurs in modern industries and ensuring that HMRC guidance reflects real world technological and scientific activity.
The panel will meet quarterly and is made up of six external members, each a recognised leader in their field. Their combined experience spans artificial intelligence, life sciences, pharmaceutical manufacturing, engineering, and corporate finance - sectors that account for a large proportion of the UK’s innovation economy.
Sitting on the panel is Oliver Stevens, an AI systems engineer with more than 15 years of experience across healthcare, biotech and the creative industries. Alongside him is Nektaria Efthymiou, a senior technology executive with experience in telecoms, cybersecurity and sustainability.
From the life sciences sector, Zahra Jawad, CEO of Creasallis, brings experience in biotechnology and antibody innovation. Gareth Jenkins, Vice President of Science and Technology at Quotient Sciences, contributes decades of expertise in pharmaceutical manufacturing and process development.
Melissa Strange, a CFO with nearly two decades in life sciences finance and strategy, introduces a commercial dimension to the panel. Finally, and representing advanced manufacturing, is Richard Scaife, a Chartered Mechanical Engineer and visiting Professor at the University of Sheffield’s Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre.
As previously stated, the RDEAP will not decide the outcome of individual R&D claims, nor will it intervene in tax disputes or set policy. Its remit will be to advise HMRC by reviewing existing and draft guidance, identifying areas where clarification is needed, and helping to align tax administration with the realities of how innovation happens in the UK economy.
The creation of the RDEAP has generally been welcomed by many advisers and claimant companies.
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