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News Release from: Federation of Master Builders (FMB) | Subject: FMB call for cut in VAT
Edited by the Buildingtalk Editorial
Team on 11 January 2008
MPs support the FMB call for cut in VAT
Cross party group of MPs is supporting the call from the Federation of Master Builders to cut VAT for all maintenance and home improvement work.
The Early Day Motion (EDM) tabled by Bob Russell MP (Liberal Democrat), Brian Binley MP (Conservative), Bill Olner MP (Labour), and Andrew George MP (Liberal Democrat) calls on the Government to reduce VAT from 17.5% to 5% on building repair and improvement work to existing buildings The politicians go on to argue that cutting VAT would benefit millions of UK home owners by getting rid of rogue builders, help those who cannot afford vital repairs to their homes, bring empty homes back into use, and protect the countryside and UK heritage
This article was originally published on Buildingtalk on 27 Jun 2003 at 8.00am (UK)
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They also state that reducing VAT in this area would make it easier for home owners to make energy efficient repairs and improvements to their properties, thus helping to make the UK's existing building stock greener and more energy efficient.
Brian Berry, Director of External Affairs at the FMB said, "We are delighted that politicians are beginning to listen to the arguments the FMB has been making".
"Not just in Westminster, but also in the Scottish Parliament where a similar motion has also been tabled".
Berry continued, "With the number of people living in fuel poverty in this country doubling since 2004 cutting VAT would enable thousands of families to upgrade their homes to make them more energy efficient and enjoy a warmer winter".
"The truth is that the current high rate of VAT on building repair work prevents people, particularly those on low-incomes, from maintaining their homes".
"In many instances, this results in people living in misery because they cannot afford to have basic repairs or central heating installed".
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