§ Mr. SandersTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what assessment his Department has made of the impact of charity shops on town centre trading. [10370]
§ Mr. RaynsfordNo such assessment has been made in the last three years. Although we are not aware of any assessment before that, this could be ascertained definitely only at disproportionate cost.
§ Mr. SandersTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions if he will list the concession on business rates available to charity shops; what plans he has to alter the rules relating to business rates in respect of charity shops; and if he will make a statement. [10371]
§ Mr. RaynsfordCharities are entitled to 80 per cent. rate relief on their charity shops if they are used wholly or mainly for the sale of donated goods and the net proceeds are used for charitable purposes. Local authorities may top this up to 100 per cent. if they wish. Charitable rate relief will be looked at as part of the charities taxation review announced by the Chancellor in the Budget.