It has been ruled that a computer issuing automatic fines on behalf of the UK's tax authority, HMRC (equivalent of the US IRS) may be illegal.
"The tribunal concerned a small property business which had filed two weeks late, but was let off a fine because the penalty had been issued automatically, it is reported.
HMRC will not appeal against the decision. A spokesperson for HMRC said the case would not affect taxpayers submitting their returns this year, it was reported.
A late tax return can attract an automatic fine of £100, rising swiftly by £10 a day if the self-assessment is still not submitted soon afterwards, even if no tax is due."