HC Deb 06 March 2003 vol 400 cc1210-1W
Mr. Prisk

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what assessment HM Treasury has made regarding reform of the Landfill Tax Credit Scheme; what research he has commissioned into the effectiveness of the scheme; and if he will make a statement. [101054]

John Healey

The Government reviewed the role of the Landfill Tax Credit Scheme following consultation with stakeholders last summer. In addition, the Public Accounts Committee, the Environment, Transport and Regions Select Committee, and the National Audit Office have all published reports on the scheme. These have all concluded that evaluation of the scheme is difficult or impossible given the way in which it has been set up with no central collection of information on its outcomes. The select committee reports have criticised the effectiveness of the scheme and these comments were taken into account in the Government's decision to reform the scheme.

The Government have been discussing with stakeholders the best ways of addressing the most serious criticisms in the operation of the successor tax credit scheme. Any plans for reform of the successor scheme will be set out on a Budget timetable.

Dr. Ladyman

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer how much has been contributed to environmental projects as a result of the Landfill Tax Credit Scheme. [101132]

John Healey

Contributions by landfill operators to environmental projects through the Landfill Tax Credit Scheme are published by ENTRUST in its Annual Reports, copies of which are being placed in the Library of the House.