HMRC launches new data access strategy with support from ADR UK
Categories: Data linkage programmes, Research using linked data, Reports, Press releases, ADR England, Office for National Statistics, World of work
7 August 2025
A major new report published today by HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC), with funding from ADR UK, sets out a roadmap to widen secure access to HMRC data for research that delivers public value.
The HMRC Research Future Strategy outlines a wide-ranging set of proposals to enhance the usability, accessibility, and impact of tax and customs data for research. The report reflects a shared commitment to using de-identified administrative data to inform decision-making and improve social and economic outcomes.
Scaling up access to one of the UK’s most valuable data assets
HMRC’s administrative data includes rich information on tax, benefits, and trade, spanning individuals, businesses, and transactions across the economy. This data can offer critical insights for HMRC, HM Treasury and other departments, strengthening policymaking and public service delivery.
The strategy lays the groundwork for unlocking the data’s potential through scalable, secure access, marking a significant milestone in ADR UK’s collaboration with HMRC.
Dr Emma Gordon, Director of ADR UK, commented:
“The ADR UK programme is all about opening up secure access to government data to support research for public good. HMRC data is incredibly important, as it allows us to understand more about both the population and the economy. I am delighted ADR UK has been able to support HMRC in thinking through options to scale up access to their data, and look forward to working with them to implement these.”
Key recommendations to improve access, engagement and data quality
The strategy sets out three broad areas of reform, reflecting feedback from researchers and government stakeholders:
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Improving data access: including enhancements to HMRC’s physical Datalab and increased access to HMRC data via trusted research environments; the strategy also explores future options for secure cloud-based remote access
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Strengthening engagement: through improved collaboration with external researchers, clearer guidance on processes and priorities, and refreshed contractual arrangements
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Improving data and documentation: by identifying gaps, standardising cataloguing, and increasing usability and linkage options for research datasets.
The strategy also includes a review of existing governance and documentation practices to ensure HMRC’s data infrastructure meets future research needs.
Rosie French, Deputy Director of ADR UK, added:
“ADR UK is pleased to fund this strategic collaboration with HMRC, supporting the exploration of secure and ethical access to tax data for research. This initiative represents a significant advancement in our mission to enable data-driven insights that inform public policy and deliver tangible societal benefits.”
Developed through engagement with the research community
The recommendations have been informed by extensive consultation with the research community, including current users of the HMRC Datalab. Researchers identified a number of barriers to effective use of HMRC data, including limited physical access, incomplete documentation, and a need for better engagement on research priorities. The strategy directly addresses these issues and proposes a more transparent, efficient, and user-centred model for future access.
As part of the next phase, HMRC will continue engaging with both government and academic stakeholders to ensure reforms meet evolving user needs.
A phased approach to implementation and future investment
The strategy outlines a two-phase approach:
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Phase 1 (until March 2026): preparatory work including improvement of core tax datasets, development of an external engagement strategy, and feasibility scoping for secure remote access.
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Phase 2 (from April 2026 onwards): full implementation of improvements, including potential migration of research-ready data to secure platforms and a review of Digital Economy Act (DEA) accreditation.
This work will form the basis of a comprehensive business case for long-term investment in HMRC’s data infrastructure. ADR UK will remain a core delivery partner, supporting this next stage and ensuring the strategy delivers on its long-term objectives.
