There are two issues which I hear a lot about when I meet with members. The problems with HMRC – a subject on which I’ve blogged a number of times – and the fact that anyone can call themselves an accountant without any qualifications, examinations or regulatory supervision.

Most people I speak to, members and non-members alike, can’t understand this. After all, solicitors are all protected so why not accountants. The people who have the power to protect the title aren’t in this camp. Government has argued in the past that to protect the term ‘accountant’ would be anti-competitive. They argue that it could force those ‘unqualified’ accountants who provide a competent and efficient service to their clients out of business and that it could restrict choice for businesses as to who they work with for accountancy services, particularly those in the SME sector.

However, there is a glimmer of light at the end of this particular tunnel. The challenge which the Department for Business, Enterprise and Regulator Reform have set the accountancy bodies in the UK is demonstrate that the case for protecting the title is in the public, not the professions’ interest. If we can, it will listen.

So how can you help? In short, with evidence! The Consultative Committee of Accounting Bodies, the umbrella organisation for the six accountancy bodies that make up the UK profession, is undertaking a research project to get the views of individual members. If you’re one of those who are contacted by email, please take part and complete the online questionnaire.

I would also like to hear about examples of where you’ve been called in to solve a situation created as a result of a client first going to an unqualified accountant. Please email your experiences to me at chief.executive@icaew.com.

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