The tax authorities will take a collaborative approach to exploring how it can use online tools to improve local ‘Working Together’ arrangements. 

However, in a briefing note to agents, HMRC said that the move to online 'does not mean we will withdraw from face-to-face entirely but we will explore the potential, in discussions with agents’ representatives, for engaging in a different way and taking a fresh approach to, for example, how we support meetings (including Working Together meetings) and meet requests for speakers.

HMRC would like to move the majority of their taxpayer contact to digital interactions but wants to discuss the proposals with agents before introducing any changes.

It has already developed a series of webinars with agents and a new webinar on self assessment returns – expenses, risks and concerns is in production at the moment.

As part of the overall plan, HMRC says it will bring the roles of agent account manager and traditional working together (WT) co-ordinators closer together. In future, they will be based in fewer locations but still provide coverage across the UK.'

The reorganisation means that there may be some changes to the personnel involved in this work over the coming months.

‘We will however work closely with agents, WT co-ordinators and AAM’s to ensure a smooth handover where we introduce new contacts and new ways of working,’ said HMRC in a technical briefing note for agents. 'We want to build on and enhance these services to improve the quality, speed and convenience of our engagement with agents.'

It is also considering a pilot of the use of closed LinkedIn groups, email and webinars.

Full details of the move to digital are available here http://www.att.org.uk/Resources/ATT/Documents/2014/09/D%20-%20Digital%20Support%20for%20Agents.pdf

Additional reporting by Sara White