§ Mr. Jeffrey Archerasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he will consider removing VAT on safety aids.
§ Dr. GilbertThere is already a very substantial measure of relief from VAT for safety aids. VAT charged on purchases of such aids by most firms is recoverable under the normal machinery of the tax; free issues of equipment to employees are not chargeable and equipment sold to employees at low prices is chargeable only on the reduced price. We have already announced that from 1st June supplies of protective boots and helmets for industrial use and motor cyclists' helmets have been zero-rated. I have no proposals to amend the law further in this respect.
§ Mr. Batesasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether, in view of the difficulties faced by societies concerned with music and the theatre, he will remove VAT from theatre and concert tickets.
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§ Dr. GilbertI have noted my hon. Friend's suggestion.
§ Mr. Batesasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what was the revenue in the last financial year from VAT on theatre and concert tickets.
§ Dr. GilbertI regret that this information is not available.
§ Mr. Peter Reesasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what is the amount of VAT which he expects to collect for periods prior to 27th March 1974, under Clause 4 of the Finance Bill.
§ Dr. GilbertNo precise information is available, but the amount of VAT involved in Clause 4 is estimated to run to tens of millions of pounds. Most of it has already been collected and would fall to be repaid if Clause 4 did not become law.