dividends

The Conservatives have criticised the Treasury for being so 'secretive' over information relating to the removal of tax relief on dividends.

Up to 90% of reclaimable tax on dividends from foreign securities - about £250m - is lying unused by UK private investors.

The Treasury says it needs further guidance on whether proposed real estate investment trusts (REITs)should be listed on the stock exchange.

At least 200,000 family businesses could be forced to pay additional tax of more than £1bn in total or around £9,000 a year following a legal victory for the Inland Revenue, says this morning's Daily Telegraph .

Property investment funds would be required to give at least 90% of their income to investors, suggests a Treasury consultation on plans for new property investments.