An explanation of the administrative process concerning stamp duties, including penalties and offences. This text sets out the relevant charge to stamp duty or relevant exemption in relation to all the various types of instrument. There is also a chapter on stamp duty reserve tax. The book includes: an analysis of the fundamental changes to the structure of the stamp duties caused by the Finance Acts 1994 and 1995; guidance on avoiding the double charge to stamp duty on property exchanges brought about by the Finance Act 1994; details of the new planning ideas currently being used to avoid stamp duty on the sale of UK shares; and detailed explanation of the changes to the associated companies exemption.