TSEM1007 - Introduction to trusts: legal background - trust law: sham trusts

Sometimes in the course of an enquiry, HMRC may argue that, while there is apparently a technically valid and fully executed trust deed, the trust is a ‘sham’. HMRC’s position would be that the trust was set up with intentions other than as expressed in the deed, and the trustees had no intention of acting on the terms of the trust.

It is purely a question of fact whether or not a trust is a sham.

Under TSEM1705 and TSEM2160 technical advisers in Trusts Technical can advise on the construction of a particular trust deed as it appears. They may also give general advice on the concept of ‘sham’.