Written question asked by Lord Bruce of Bennachie (Liberal Democrat) on Monday, 27 October 1997, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Friday, 7 November 1997. It was answered by Lord Darling of Roulanish (Labour) on Friday, 7 November 1997 on behalf of the Treasury.

Treasury

Question: To ask Mr Chancellor of the Exchequer, what is his estimate of the total tax reclaimed by Government departments, agencies and other public bodies in the latest year for which information is available. - (Holding answer 30 October 1997).

Answer: Mr. Malcolm Bruce: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what is his estimate of the total tax reclaimed by Government Departments, agencies and other public bodies in the latest year for which information is available; and if he will make a statement. [13534] Mr. Darling: [holding answer 30 October 1997]: From the tax returns submitted by Government departments and agencies during 1996-97, the total amount of value added tax due was £521 million, the total amount reclaimed was £1,500 million resulting in a balance repaid of £979 million. Figures for other public bodies are not available.

Secondary information