§ Mr. FauldsTo ask the Minister for the Arts if the statement in paragraph 3.3 of his Office's annual report for 1992, Cm 1912, concerning the availability from the contingency reserve of up to £10 million per annum, taking one year with another, for acceptance in lieu represents a change in policy from the announcement of 26 July 1985,Official Report, column 777, stating that the figure was not a limit but an estimate; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. RentonAs Lord Gowrie said when he announced this policy in 1985, it is not possible to give an exact estimate of what might be accepted in lieu of tax in any one year, as too many unpredictables are involved. Looking at recent and current levels of acceptance in lieu offers, we would expect to call on the reserve for around £10 million or so a year, taking one year with another. I am pleased to say that there has been no change in policy in this area and must emphasise strongly that this is neither a target nor a limit, but an estimate. In any given year the demand could be either less or more.