MPs have formed a cross party group to show support for a VAT reduction on all maintenance and home improvement work.
The Early Day Motion, called for by the Federation of Master Builders, was tabled by Bob Russell MP (Liberal Democrat), Brian Binley MP (Conservative), Bill Olner MP (Labour), and Andrew George MP (Liberal Democrat).
The EDM calls for a lowering of VAT on home improvements and repairs from 17.5 per cent to 5 percent. If carried would be of great assistance to people looking to make green upgrades to their home and would help a wider range of people make their home environmentally friendly, not just the well off.
Brian Berry, Director of External Affairs at the FMB said; "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."
It is also believed that the move will help curb the use of rogue builders, bring empty homes back into use and protect UK heritage. |
