§ Mr. BowdenTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what special notice will be included in pensioners' order books explaining the compensation arrangements for the first stage of VAT on fuel at eight per cent. following the decision not to proceed with the second stage of VAT on fuel to 17.5 per cent.
§ Mr. ArbuthnotHelp with 8 per cent. VAT on domestic fuel has been included in order books since April this year; introducing explanations now would be inappropriate. In addition, there is little evidence that there is any need for them.
The uprating in April 1995 will be higher as a result of the 8 per cent. levy feeding through in the retail prices index and Rossi. However, with a further tranche of help now unnecessary, there will be no additional increases above normal uprating. A special explanation next year would therefore also be inappropriate.