HL Deb 09 June 1999 vol 601 cc166-7WA
Baroness Byford

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether they intend to reduce VAT on renovations to dwellings, particularly in urban and city areas. [HL2728]

Lord McIntosh of Haringey

No. This is not possible under EC law; but tax is only one factor in meeting housing policy objectives and it may riot be the most effective. Land use planning clearly has a key role. The Government keep the use of economic instruments in helping to achieve environmental aims under continuous review.