Prospect secures HMRC recognition for VOA members ahead of transfer

Prospect has secured formal trade union recognition with HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) for members transferring from the Valuation Office Agency (VOA).

The agreement, confirmed by HMRC Chief Executive and First Permanent Secretary John-Paul Marks, takes effect from 1 April 2026 and ensures Prospect retains recognition rights for VOA members moving into HMRC.

This means members will continue to have a strong, independent voice in the workplace following the transfer. Prospect is now engaging with HMRC to support the transition and ensure members’ interests are protected on pay, conditions and job security.

Steve Thomas, Prospect Deputy General Secretary, said:

“The announcement of the closure of the VOA and transfer into HMRC came as a shock, coming as it did outside of what we had been told would be a proper review of arms’ length bodies.

“One of the non-negotiables for our VOA members was continuing the distinct, specialist voice of their union after transfer.   I’m delighted that the branch, with support from their full-time officer Rose Willis, has achieved this”.