Tax evasion and under-reporting of indirect taxes cost the UK billions each year. HMRC estimates VAT evasion alone stood at £5.5 billion in 2022–23, though the Public Accounts Committee believes the true figure is “vastly underestimated.” With VAT registration systems described as “far too open to abuse,” the Government launched a consultation on e-invoicing, looking at ways to reduce paperwork, improve accuracy, and ensure businesses “get it right first time.” One key question under consideration was whether the UK should adopt a real-time reporting model. Data Tech International (DTI) — a specialist RegTech company designing secure digital tax collection systems for governments — asked Parisi to support its engagement in this policy debate.

We began with our proven four-step process, starting with in-depth interviews with the DTI team to extract the insights that would best resonate with policymakers. We then audited DTI’s existing materials, refining these into clear, targeted messages. From there, we built a comprehensive stakeholder map covering ministers, advisers, civil servants, regulators, MPs, peers, think tanks, journalists, academics, and industry voices. Using our bespoke technology, we identified who was driving the debate and how best to engage them.

Our approach enabled direct engagement with ministers and officials, ensuring DTI’s expertise was heard at the highest levels. DTI was invited to submit written evidence and attend stakeholder meetings as part of the consultation process. Beyond government, we also succeeded in raising awareness of secure digital tax systems with influential journalists and think tanks, positioning DTI as a trusted authority on digital tax collection and strengthening its role in shaping the UK’s future approach.