27. Mr. William O'BrienTo ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what recent representations he has received over the adding of value added tax on standing charges for gas and electricity; and if he will make a statement.
§ Sir John CopeI have received a large number of representations, both from right hon. and hon. Members and from members of the public. I have made it clear on a number of occasions that the standing charge has always been regarded as part of the consideration for a single supply of fuel and power. If it were not, it would have been liable to VAT at the standard rate since 1 April 1973 and would be liable at that rate now.