Giant reponse to Umbrella Supermarket concerns in full

Giant Group Ltd have responded to the concerns brought to its attention by Umbrella Supermarket's investigation and have replied. This is their reply in full:

"* We acknowledge that the conversation quoted by UmbrellaSupermarket between their mystery shopper and one of our helpline representatives, if it occurred exactly as stated, was wholly inappropriate.
* As a result of this being brought to Giant's attention, immediate steps have been taken to begin a full re-training exercise for all relevant staff to ensure our high levels of compliance are fully reflected in all communications to our clients or others.
* Our expenses policy is very clear on this matter as the extracts below demonstrate;

....A business expense is a cost that you have incurred 'wholly, necessarily and exclusively' in order to perform the duties of your employment.....
 
.....HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) tax laws are very strict in defining which business expenses may be claimed. Therefore, the Company must comply with the law when accepting and processing business expenses......

.....Subsistence expenses are meal costs incurred whilst working at a temporary workplace. You are therefore only eligible to claim subsistence expenses if you meet the criteria.....

.....To ensure all claims are valid, the Company will endeavour to check and verify expenses in accordance with HMRC tax legislation......

* Giant has invested heavily in ensuring that it's online expenses system is one of the most rigorously validated, legislatively compliant,
systems available
* Our current dispensation was only granted following a substantial period of discussion and detailed audit by HMRC.
* Giant always seeks to maintain the highest levels of compliance and will continue to ensure that it is checking and validating all expense claims made in line with HMRC guidelines."