TAX dodgers are being targeted in a trio of campaigns.

HMRC (Her Majesty's Revenue and Customs) will train its sights on those who failed to submit their tax returns and who are liable to pay tax at the highest rate, which is 50 per cent for those earning more than £150,000. It will also target anyone working in the home improvement trade, such as electricians and plumbers, plus builders, roofers, window fitters, bricklayers, joiners and carpenters.

The third campaign is aimed at people involved in direct selling — those who ought to be paying tax they earn from buying and selling goods directly to others, or from the commission on these sales.

HMRC said it will use new technology to search the internet for information.

"We are offering people targeted the opportunity to come forward," said Marian Wilson, of HMRC's Risk and Intelligence. "Penalties will be higher if we come and find people after the opportunity. A criminal investigation may also result. I therefore urge them to disclose unpaid tax voluntarily."