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Written question asked by Lord Hodgson of Astley Abbotts (Conservative) on Monday, 18 September 2023, in the House of Lords. It was due for an answer on Monday, 2 October 2023. It was answered by Lord Parkinson of Whitley Bay (Conservative) on Friday, 29 September 2023 on behalf of the Department for Culture, Media and Sport.

Listed Places of Worship Grant Scheme: VAT

Question

To ask His Majesty's Government whether they have any plans to amend the present ability to reclaim VAT under the Listed Places of Worship Scheme.

Answer

Listed places of worship represent some of the nation's finest heritage, and HM Government recognises the need to preserve and maintain such hallowed buildings. The Listed Place of Worship Grant Scheme aims to mitigate the cost of doing so and to support listed and protected buildings for the benefit of present and future generations.

There are presently no plans to amend the eligibility criteria for the scheme, but we keep them under review. We have also been working to ensure that the accessibility and uptake of the scheme is improved, particularly through the development of a new website and application process. Officials maintain regular contact with key people and organisations representing listed places of worship, and continue to welcome feedback on the operation and effectiveness of the scheme. I was pleased to visit St Peter and St Paul's church in Albury, Surrey, earlier this year to hear how the Listed Places of Worship grant scheme helped them to carry out repairs to the church roof.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
HL10240
Session
2022-23
Subjects
Tax allowances VAT Listed places of worship grant scheme
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk