This week's press release from HMRC seems to be an attempt to address concerns about how long 'customers' have to wait when they call. I'm unclear why it hasn't had more publicity as the new system comes into operation today.

All calls to HMRC will now go initially to a new service using a private routing internet language. This will enable 'customers' to short-cut the tedious waiting time, simply by using the keypad on their phone. There are some technical issues for optimum operation liaison.

But, in essence if you don't press one of the numbers immediately you will then be transferred back into the standard queuing system.

So choose wisely:

Press 1 if you have never called HMRC before

Press 2 if you have called before but gave up after waiting on hold

Press 3 if you don't mind waiting but want to choose the music you have to endure

Press 4 if you are a regular caller

Press 5 if you are still waiting for HMRC to do what they agreed to do last time you called

Press 6 if you are calling on behalf of a sanctioned Russian oligarch

Press 7 if you have an offshore account and have forgotten to tell HMRC about it

Press 8 if you are a tax agent and understand how the tax system works

Press 9 if you recognise the initial letters of: A Private Routing Internet Language For Optimum Operation Liaison.