HC Deb 12 April 1973 vol 854 c320W
Mr. Duffy

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he is satisfied with the operation of VAT since its introduction; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Higgins

I would refer the hon Member to the answer I gave on 11th April to the hon. Member for Liverpool, Exchange (Mr. Parry).—[Vol. 854, c.291.]

Mr. Hugh Jenkins

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether talking books provided for the blind are subject to VAT; and if so whether he will remove the tax.

Mr. Higgins

The supply to the Royal National Institute for the Blind of talking books for the blind, together with the specially adapted magnetic tape and parts and accessories for the recorders, is zero-rated under Group 4 of Schedule 4 to the Finance Act 1972.

Mr. Hugh Jenkins

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether radio sets provided by the British Wireless for the Blind Fund are free from VAT; and if not whether he will remove the tax.

Mr. Higgins

No, but the British Wireless for the Blind Fund should benefit from the concessions to charities announced in the last two Budgets.