An HMRC spokesperson said: “The successful conclusion of HMRC inquiries has secured a substantial result, which means that Google will pay the full tax due in law on profits that belong in the UK. Multinational companies must pay the tax that is due and we do not accept less.

“HMRC enforces the tax rules impartially, irrespective of the size or structure of the business. Last year, our compliance activities yielded £26bn in extra tax, including £7.3bn from the largest and most complex businesses.”

MPs launch tax inquiry after criticism of £130m Google-HMRC deal | Business | The Guardian
http://www.theguardian.com/business/201 ... -hmrc-deal

With any luck it won't be a bloody whitewash. Though who would be hopeful it would even be acted upon if it wasn't?

They were reporting on the news that the EU wants to speak to Osbourne about this, as other countries have managed to recover a lot more.

The real mystery though is why he ever thought it would be a good idea to be the public face of it.

Google Ireland staff paid much less than London colleagues | Technology | The Guardian
http://www.theguardian.com/technology/2 ... colleagues

London weighting isn't exactly something new or unusual. And I say that as someone who doesn't get it.

London weighting yes, however the discrepancy is over 120% which seems a bit steep. Housing very well could be that much of a difference but other costs are unlikely to be that different between London and Dublin.