UK VAT returns can now be sumbitted in XML

[David Goodenough <da...@linkchoose.co.uk>]

A copy of HM Revenue and Customs VAT notes No 4 2006 arrived this morning,
and item 14 reads:-

>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
XML VAT declations

Revenue and Customs has released a new channel for the submission of both
VAT Returns and EC Sales List declarations.  Businesses will have an 
additional option of submitting their declarations via an XML channel
using commercial and bespoke software.  Commercial packages will start
to become available in early 2007.  There is a facility for businesses
to appoint a VAT Registered Agent to submit on their behalf.  Registration
for the service is via the Government Gateway using PIN and password.  
For introductory information and a link to the Government Gateway, visit
the Revenue and Customs website at www.hmrc.gov.uk selecting the Online
Services link.
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

I seem to recall that someone said they were going to be working on 
getting the VAT support in OfBiz up to scratch at the end of last year,
and it strikes me that getting support for the XML reporting format in
there at the same time would be sensible.

My guess is that as this also involves European Community reports that 
there is a chance that HMR&C have not gone it alone in defining this
format and that at least elements of it may be of relevant to the rest 
of the EU.  But HMR&C can be a bit of a law unto themselves so it is 
also quite possible they have gone their own sweet way.

I do not know more details on the format, but if whoever was doing work
on enhancing the VAT support would like some help I can commit some 
programming resources to this project if they would care to get in touch.

David