§ 34. Miss McIntoshTo ask the hon. Member for Middlesbrough, representing the Church Commissioners, what recent discussions he has held with the Financial Secretary on reducing VAT on church repairs. [119907]
§ Mr. Stuart BellFollowing my Adjournment Debate last November, the Church has kept in close touch with the Government. The hon. Lady will be aware that Ministers have confirmed that there is no general relief from VAT on repair costs for churches and the Government's current agreement with their European partners means that new zero rates cannot be introduced. While there is no provision for a reduced rate of VAT under Annex H to the Sixth Directive, it applies only to social housing and not churches.
The Church will continue to press its case for a more equitable tax position in this field.