An 'Arctic' storm in a teacup

Over-eagerness by accountants Price Waterhouse Coopers brought confusion to watchers of the land-mark Section 660 case involving Arctic Systems.

As the decision of the Special Commissioners relating to the so-called 'married-couple's business tax' is eagerly awaited by small businesses and their advisers, two press releases came from PWC. One claimed: "A chill wind for small business as Revenue wins landmark case". The other Victory for small business and common sense in landmark tax case.

What was happening?

The Daily Telegraph diary had the answer. A spokesman told them: "It was just a technical glitch. The case hasn't been decided yet. The releases were just about being prepared."

As the Telegraph said: 'An (Arctic) storm in a teacup'.

The actual decision was expected in July, but is not yet known.