§ Mr. Robert BanksTo ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what is the latest number of reported closures of racehorse training establishments since 1989; and what analysis he has made of the effects of lower rates of VAT in other EC countries, on the competitiveness of the United Kingdom racehorse training industry.
§ Sir John CopeThere is no information available on how many racehorse training yards have closed since 1989. The present difference in the VAT rates for training fees between EC member states has existed for many years and will not be affected by the introduction of the single market. Racehorse owners choose to put their horses for training to particular trainers for many reasons. The United Kingdom continues to retain a large number of highly respected and successful trainers.