Value Added Tax

HC Deb 26 July 1982 vol 28 cc356-7W

Mr. Nicholas Winterton

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he will give further consideration to removing value added tax from housing repairs, as suggested by the British Association of Retired Persons.

Mr. Bruce-Gardyne

The scope and coverage of VAT is kept under continuing review. The removal of VAT from house repairs would, however, cost as much as £425 million in a full year and in our judgment this is a loss of revenue that cannot be contemplated.

Mr. Adley

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will list the level of value added tax on boats presently pertaining in all European Economic Community countries.

Mr. Bruce-Gardyne

I shall let my hon. Friend have a reply as soon as possible.

Mr. Grylls

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what would be the net effect on the Exchequer, taking into account administrative savings to Customs and Excise, of annual collection of value added tax from registered traders having a turnover of (a) less than £50,000 and (b) less than £30,000.

Mr. Bruce-Gardyne

I regret that information is not available on which to make a reliable estimate.