§ Mr. CollinsTo ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will make a statement about the continuation of deferred tax collection from businesses affected by the foot and mouth outbreak in Cumbria. [7521]
§ Mr. Andrew Smith[holding answer 22 October 2001]: The Government keep all taxes under review and decisions will be made as part of the normal Budget process. Throughout the outbreak the Inland Revenue and Customs have been working constructively with businesses and their representatives to reschedule payments where possible. Deferment of payments is just one of the ways in which this can be achieved. Their approach has been to develop solutions that match the needs of individual businesses, rather than adopt a blanket approach.
The Inland Revenue and Customs will continue to take a sympathetic approach to businesses which have been affected by FMD, and are aware that some businesses will continue to suffer problems throughout the autumn and winter.