We guess that you would not wish to read too many tax updates over the Festive Season (unless you are one of the 2,600 people who file their returns on Christmas Day), so this month’s Tax Titbits has two purposes. First, to wish readers a Happy Christmas and to hope that Santa Claus brings the one gift that all tax advisers really want: less complexity in the tax system. Second, to share some thoughts as to what might be key items for clients in the early years of the new decade.

Taxpayers’ early attention will be given to the rules which come into effect from 6 April in relation to the disposal of residential properties. Fro...