THE UK tax system is too complicated, according to a survey.

Despite claims to the contrary by Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs, more than three in four taxpayers - 77.5 per cent - are frustrated with its complexity.

And they want it simplified.

The Internet survey by Baker Tilly, an accounting and business advice firm with offices in Tunbridge Wells, surprisingly found that only 54 per cent felt they paid too much tax.

And 11 per cent of respondents said they would even be prepared to pay more tax if it meant better public services.

The survey, undertaken between November 21 and December 20, attracted 713 respondents among Baker Tilly clients, employees, consultants and contacts with a wide range of income backgrounds and professions.

Paul Hodge, tax partner for Baker Tilly in Tunbridge Wells, said: "There are two crucial findings for HMRC here.

"First is the public’s considered attitude towards tax as demonstrated by the 46 per cent of people who are content with their current tax bill or would pay more for better social justice.

"Second is the overwhelming majority of people who expressed concern at the complexity of the tax system.

"Tax simplification is a very complicated issue: now is a good time for HMRC to initiate a serious debate as to how we strike the best balance."