HC Deb 09 May 1973 vol 856 cc132-3W
Mr. Joel Barnett

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer (1) what representations he has received about a shortage of forms for VAT registered firms to claim purchase tax rebate on stocks held at 31st March 1973; and if he will make a statement;

(2) if he will allow additional time to VAT registered firms who had not submitted their applications for rebate of purchase tax on stocks, due to shortage of the appropriate forms; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. David Mitchell

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he will give consideration to extending the time limit for reclaiming purchase tax and excise duty rebates due to the introduction of VAT in view of the difficulty experienced by many small businesses in completing the required formalities in the short period permitted.

Mr. Higgins

There has been no general shortage of rebate claim forms. Owing to heavy demands in one or two areas, stocks of these forms in some local VAT offices were on occasion temporarily depleted during April. The treatment of particular claims received after 30th April is under consideration.

Mr. Jeffrey Archer

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what revenue in a full year is anticipated from VAT on toothbrushes and toothpastes.

Mr. Higgins

The full-year yields of value added tax from toothbrushes and toothbrushes are estimated to be about £¼ million and £2½ million respectively.

Mr. Redmond

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will seek to amend the VAT regulations so as to zero-rate the cost of compulsory conversion of existing fireplaces under the smokeless zone regulations.

Mr. Higgins

No.

Mr. Deakins

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer when he expects consultations to begin with other EEC States with the objective of harmonising rates and coverage of VAT when the EEC switches to the "own resources" system of financing on 1st January 1975.

Mr. Higgins

There is provision for part of the Community's "own resources" to be met by the proceeds of a rate of VAT of up to 1 per cent. determined in a uniform manner according to Community rules, from 1st January 1975. The Commission has not yet submitted to the Council its proposals for harmonising the tax base for this purpose and I cannot predict when it will do so. When its proposals are submitted they will be considered by the European Parliament and the Economic and Social Committee and discussed in the Council. The question of harmonising the rates of VAT does not arise.