HMRC investigating around 100 current and former BBC presenters

Around 100 current and former BBC presenters are being investigated for alleged tax avoidance. Credit: Anthony Devlin PA Wire

HMRC is investigating around 100 current and former BBC presenters for alleged tax avoidance.

The probe centres around the tax records of freelance staff at the corporation who were paid via personal service companies.

Staff may have to repay unpaid tax if HMRC finds they incorrectly declared themselves as self-employed, rather than as employees.

Questions were raised about the tax status of some presenters following a tax tribunal judgment involving newsreaders Tim Willcox and Joanna Gosling. They have appealed against a ruling by HMRC to pay extra tax and National Insurance contributions.

In a statement, the corporation said it was "up to individuals to ensure they pay the right tax".

It added: "Since 2013, the BBC has adopted a new employment status test that provides a clear and consistent approach to the employment status of journalists and presenters."