Rangers face crisis in tax dispute

22 October 2011 10:16

Rangers owner Craig Whyte has admitted his club are facing a "crisis situation" over their ongoing tax dispute.

The Old Firm side are facing a £49 million tax bill - and Whyte said on Saturday they are "paralysed" by the case. The Scottish champions are involved in two separate disputes with HM Revenue and Customs, relating to payments before Whyte completed his takeover.

The club have not paid a £2.8 million tax bill which first emerged in April, relating to payments made to staff between 1999 to 2003. They are believed to be disputing a fine that goes with it. A tax tribunal, which could cost the club £49 million, will resume in November.

Whyte has always maintained he is confident of winning the case.

But he told newspapers The Herald and the Scottish Sun: "What we have to remember is that Rangers are in a crisis situation. It's a hard thing to live with: I think we need to get finality on it."

And the businessman appeared to suggest that Rangers may not appeal if a decision went against the club.

He said: "Since the very start of the process, I have had plans for all eventualities. I didn't come into this with my eyes closed.

"We need to move forward and, even though it may be a tough process, we must try to remove the uncertainty that is hanging over us. The club is paralysed right now.

"It affects us commercially. How can anyone enter into, say, a five-year deal with Rangers in the midst of this uncertainty?"

Source: PA