§ Mr. McGradyTo ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what plans he has to remove stamp duty for first-time buyers. [121730]
§ Mr. BoatengThe Government is not convinced that removing stamp duty for first-time buyers is the best way to assist those on the bottom rung of the housing ladder. Indeed it might actually fuel house price inflation and make property less affordable for first-time buyers. Continuing stability through the Government's policies, and in particular, continuing low interest rates, have been effective in helping people to be able to afford their own home. As such there are no plans to remove stamp duty for first-time buyers.