, more than double a year earlier. However, the company did not pay any tax in Britain, despite an existing windfall scheme, because it took advantage of a rule which means the amount owed to HMRC is reduced if a company invests in new UK drilling projects. On Thursday, Mr van Beurden conceded there was a case for windfall taxes, but said that producers should be 'at the table' to make sure any new taxes were designed in a 'correct and appropriate' way. Asked if Shell was actively engaging with the Treasury about the design of any additional UK taxes, Mr van Beurden said: 'We have spoken with the Government many times in the lead up to the levy put in place by the then-Chancellor earlier in the year. 'I am absolutely certain that we are indeed in continuous dialogue with the Treasury on these matters, in a constructive way. 'But not me personally, at this point in time. I would imagine that moment may still come. But of course, I'm also very mindful that it's a very busy time at this stage for the Government.' It came as the prime minister's spokesman said 'no options are off the table' ahead of Chancellor Jeremy Hunt's autumn statement on November 17. The Government hiked taxes on North Sea oil and gas producers from 40pc to 65pc in May, but is under pressure to go further given ongoing pressure on household bills, which are now being heavily subsidised by taxpayers. Mr van Beurden added it was 'sensible' and a 'societal reality' that governments will try to help people struggling with high prices. He said: 'I think therefore [it's){kind=link}
Oil and gas giant did not pay any tax in Britain, despite an existing windfall scheme
Shell is in talks with the Government as ministers consider a fresh windfall tax on oil and gas companies to help fill a £35bn black hole in the public finances.
Ben van Buerden, chief executive of the oil and gas giant, said he accepted the case for higher taxes after the industry was boosted by surging fossil fuel prices following Vladimir Putin’s invasion of Ukraine.
It came as Shell posted global quarterly profits of $9.45bn (£8bn), more than double a year earlier.
However, the company did not pay any tax in Britain, despite an existing windfall scheme, because it took advantage of a rule which means the amount owed to HMRC is reduced if a company invests in new UK drilling projects.