Chris Huhne

Huhne Calls For VAT Cut For Building Repairs

Eastleigh MP Chris Huhne has backed a cut in the rate of Value Added Tax on building repair and improvements as a way of boosting the building trade and bringing construction workers back into employment.

Mr Huhne has backed a Commons motion that calls for a reduction in VAT to five per cent on building repair and improvement work to existing buildings.

Mr Huhne said: “This reduction in VAT would benefit millions of UK home owners by getting rid of rogue builders, helping those who cannot afford vital repairs to their homes, and bringing empty homes back into use. Such a reduction would also make it easier for home owners to make energy efficient repairs and improvements to their properties.

“It is surely crazy that there is a big VAT rate on repairs, but no VAT on new buildings. The gap between the two makes no sense, as it is just as important to repair an old building as it is to build a new one,” said Mr Huhne.