A BUSINESSMAN has been arrested on suspicion of £1.9m tax fraud, it has been revealed.

The alleged fraud relates to VAT and Income Tax, according to HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC).

HMRC criminal investigators arrested the 48-year-old man at a residential address in Chilworth, Southampton, on Tuesday 10 September 2013.

He was questioned on suspicion of fraud by false representation and cheating the public revenue.

The man was released on bail until 10 December 2013. Investigations continue.

A residential address and one commercial property were searched.

HMRC spokesman Bob Gaiger said: “Tackling tax fraud is a key priority for HMRC and we will not hesitate to investigate those suspected of stealing public funds.

"Anyone with information about people who may be involved in tax fraud can contact the Tax Evasion Hotline on 0800 788 887.”