§ Mr. PriskTo ask the hon. Member for Middlesbrough, representing the Stamp DutyChurch commissioners what study has been made of the impact of increases in stamp duty land tax on the commercial holdings of the Church of England; and if he will make a statement. [135607]
§ Mr. BellNo such study has been made in respect of the Church Commissioners' commercial property investment portfolio. I understand that changes to this tax come into effect on 1 December 2003: whether or not these will have an impact upon the amount of rent tenants will offer for new leases remains to be seen. The Commissioners take independent professional advice regarding the rental values of their properties and these are reviewed regularly.