HMRC is considering handing out tablets and laptops to 7,000 employees in an effort to improve the mobility of its workforce.

In the past, the tax department has tended to opt for more stationary desktops when providing staff with computers, but is to change tact as it seeks to assist mobile working, according to HMRC's chief information officer Mark Hall.

Speaking to Computer Weekly, Hall disclosed that it was to roll-out 'out of the box' devices, with Apple iPads introduced in an initial pilot.

Following the pilot, HMRC 'will pause and reflect and look at user cases', before it is expected that transport-friendly products from other suppliers are also issued.

HMRC has since issued a statement, stating: 'HMRC are not about to buy 7,000 iPads. HMRC's workforce is becoming more mobile - such as field force agents and tax inspectors - so it is only right that we ensure our staff have the right tools for their job.

'We have identified a number of staff who may not require a fixed desktop, so are looking at what other options are available in order to provide a better service to customers.'