An independent Scotland could fix the inefficiencies and abuses of the UK tax system if it took an entirely different approach, creating a system that works better for Scotland’s economy and society.
The report is split into four sections.
― The first considers the principles and foundations on which a Scottish tax system should be based. These are social and economic. As a result the human rights on which Scottish tax should be based are considered, as are the economics that underpin a modern understanding of how tax works and fits into the macroeconomic environment.
― Second, observations on the political and functional organisation of a Scottish tax system are made. These give attention to both the political and administrative dimensions of this issue and how both will need to be structured if a truly accountable tax system is to be created.
― Thirdly, the interaction of the Scottish tax system with those systems from which it will need to draw data to ensure that taxes can be properly charged are discussed to emphasise that tax does not exist in isolation but must be integrated across systems of government.
― Fourthly, there is discussion on more detailed aspects of the tax system Scotland will need. This looks at the actual taxes required. This section also looks at the mechanisms required to beat tax abuse, including the necessary accounting and company law required to minimise the chance that this abuse occurs.