§ Mr. KirkwoodTo ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will estimate the cost to public funds of removing VAT on fees charged by private domestic home care agencies. [3619]
§ Mr. Heathcoat-Amory[holding answer 4 December 1995]:There are no figures available to allow an estimate to be made.
§ Mr. KirkwoodTo ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what plans he has to abolish VAT on fees charged by private domestic home care agencies. [3620]
§ Mr. Heathcoat-Amory[holding answer 4 December 1995]: Home care services provided by commercial agencies using medically qualified staff are already exempt from VAT. I announced on 9 October that in certain circumstances where agencies used unqualified staff, they need not charge VAT, provided that there is an appropriate measure of supervision by qualified medical professionals. Customs and Excise is currently holding discussions with representatives of the home care industry to agree the details of this change.