Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask His Majesty's Government what recent discussions they have had with the devolved administrations about changes to the allocation of funding across the UK on reserved matters.

Answered by Lord Livermore - Financial Secretary (HM Treasury)

The UK and devolved governments have regular discussions about changes to the allocation of funding across the UK, including on reserved matters.

The UK Government remains committed to ensuring that funding across the UK is allocated in line with the Statement of Funding Policy.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what estimate she has made of the number of pensioners who will be required to pay tax for the first time after 2027.

Answered by Torsten Bell - Parliamentary Secretary (HM Treasury)

The majority of pensioners paid tax under the previous Government, with 8.3 million taxpayers over state pension age in 2024/2025.

The Chancellor has said that those whose only income is the basic or new State Pension without any increments will not have to pay income tax over this Parliament

At the Budget, the Government announced that it will achieve this by easing the administrative burden for pensioners so that they do not have to pay small amounts of tax via Simple Assessment from 2027/28. The Government will set out more details in due course.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, whether she has made an assessment of the potential merits of ringfencing UK ETS revenues generated from maritime emissions for investment in shore power, grid upgrades, vessel retrofits and alternative fuels.

Answered by Dan Tomlinson - Exchequer Secretary (HM Treasury)

The government is committed to maintaining an ambitious carbon pricing scheme to ensure that polluters continue to pay for their emissions. The UK Emissions Trading Scheme is our key lever to do so. This supports a cost-efficient transition toward net zero.

In July 2025, the UK Emissions Trading Scheme Authority confirmed an expansion to emissions from domestic maritime regime, commencing on 1 July 2026.

The UK does not hypothecate revenue from the UK ETS. All receipts from the UK ETS accrue to the consolidated fund, and go to funding government priorities, which includes decarbonisation support for the maritime sector.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what assessment she has made of the potential impact of the (a) higher value surcharge in 2025-26 on hereditaments valued at £500,000 and (b) withdrawal of the Retail, Hospitality and Leisure multiplier at £500,000 on the economy.

Answered by Dan Tomlinson - Exchequer Secretary (HM Treasury)

The OBR’s Economic and Fiscal Outlook sets out the forecast for the economy over a five-year horizon. For more information, please visit https://obr.uk/docs/dlm_uploads/OBR_Economic_and_fiscal_outlook_November_2025.pdf

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, how much their department spent on X and xAI since July 2024.

Answered by Dan Tomlinson - Exchequer Secretary (HM Treasury)

HM Treasury has not spent any money on X or xAI since July 2024.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, further to the Treasury Select Committee, Work of HM Revenue and Customs - Oral evidence, HC 416, 13 January 2026, Question 480, what number and proportion of hotels have seen their Rateable Value increase above the English average change of 19%.

Answered by Dan Tomlinson - Exchequer Secretary (HM Treasury)

Statistics on changes in the rateable value of non-domestic properties as a result of the 2026 Revaluation and publication of the draft 2026 Rating List are published here: Change in rateable value of rating lists, 2026 Revaluation.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, with reference to the Non-Domestic Rating (Definition of Qualifying Retail, Hospitality or Leisure Hereditament) Regulations 2025, for what reason casinos and gambling clubs are eligible for the new business rate relief but betting shops are not.

Answered by Dan Tomlinson - Exchequer Secretary (HM Treasury)

In October 2024, the Government laid a statutory instrument defining the retail, hospitality and leisure (RHL) properties that will be eligible for new, lower business rates multipliers from April 2026.

Since they were announced at Budget 2024, the Government has been clear that scope of the RHL multipliers would broadly reflect the scope of the current RHL relief. The previous Government made the decision to exclude betting shops from the relief. This Government considered the issue in the round, and decided to continue the treatment the previous Government chose to ensure the tax cut is appropriately targeted.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what consideration her Department gives to the statutory conservation and education requirements that zoological institutions must meet when deciding business rates policy.

Answered by Dan Tomlinson - Exchequer Secretary (HM Treasury)

At the Budget, the VOA announced updated property values from the 2026 revaluation. This revaluation is the first since the pandemic, which has led to significant increases in rateable values for some properties as they recover from the pandemic.

To respond to those who are seeing large increases, Government has already acted to limit increases in bills, announcing a support package worth £4.3 billion package at the Budget.

The Government is also introducing new permanently lower tax rates for eligible retail, hospitality and leisure (RHL) properties. This includes zoos and aquariums with rateable values below £500,000 that are open to members of the public. These new tax rates are worth nearly £900 million per year, and will benefit over 750,000 properties.

Further details on what is meant by “visiting members of the public” can be found online here: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/business-rates-multipliers-qualifying-retail-hospitality-or-leisure.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, if she will make an assessment of the potential merits of extending business rates relief to (a) zoos and (b) aquariums.

Answered by Dan Tomlinson - Exchequer Secretary (HM Treasury)

At the Budget, the VOA announced updated property values from the 2026 revaluation. This revaluation is the first since the pandemic, which has led to significant increases in rateable values for some properties as they recover from the pandemic.

To respond to those who are seeing large increases, Government has already acted to limit increases in bills, announcing a support package worth £4.3 billion package at the Budget.

The Government is also introducing new permanently lower tax rates for eligible retail, hospitality and leisure (RHL) properties. This includes zoos and aquariums with rateable values below £500,000 that are open to members of the public. These new tax rates are worth nearly £900 million per year, and will benefit over 750,000 properties.

Further details on what is meant by “visiting members of the public” can be found online here: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/business-rates-multipliers-qualifying-retail-hospitality-or-leisure.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what assessment she has made of the potential impact of the business rates revaluation on (a) zoos and (b) aquariums in 2026.

Answered by Dan Tomlinson - Exchequer Secretary (HM Treasury)

At the Budget, the VOA announced updated property values from the 2026 revaluation. This revaluation is the first since the pandemic, which has led to significant increases in rateable values for some properties as they recover from the pandemic.

To respond to those who are seeing large increases, Government has already acted to limit increases in bills, announcing a support package worth £4.3 billion package at the Budget.

The Government is also introducing new permanently lower tax rates for eligible retail, hospitality and leisure (RHL) properties. This includes zoos and aquariums with rateable values below £500,000 that are open to members of the public. These new tax rates are worth nearly £900 million per year, and will benefit over 750,000 properties.

Further details on what is meant by “visiting members of the public” can be found online here: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/business-rates-multipliers-qualifying-retail-hospitality-or-leisure.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask His Majesty's Government how much additional funding will be allocated to the Northern Ireland Executive through Barnett consequentials following the announcement of the pubs and live music venues relief scheme on 27 January; and whether they plan to extend that relief scheme to the wider hospitality sector.

Answered by Lord Livermore - Financial Secretary (HM Treasury)

Any Barnett consequentials for the Northern Ireland Executive resulting from changes to business rates revenues in England will be confirmed when business rates forecasts change at the relevant fiscal event.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask His Majesty's Government, further to the Written Answer by Lord Livermore on 5 January (HL13130), whether the expert reviews into public service inefficiencies, announced on 19 January, represent the review of value for money across government spending announced in the Budget.

Answered by Lord Livermore - Financial Secretary (HM Treasury)

At the Budget last year, the Chancellor announced that the Chief Secretary to the Treasury will lead a review of value for money across government spending. The recommendations from this review will then be considered at the next Spending Review.

A further announcement was made on the 19th January, outlining the four key areas of focus and how a review into each will work. This includes drawing on expertise from across the public and private sector.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, pursuant to the Answer of 19 January 202 to Question 105434 on Retail Trade: Business Rates, what proportion of the 23% of ratepayers expected to see a reduction in business rates are from the retail sector.

Answered by Dan Tomlinson - Exchequer Secretary (HM Treasury)

Data on the change in the rateable value of non-domestic properties as a result of the 2026 revaluation, including for the retail sector, can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/government/statistics/national-non-domestic-rates-collected-by-councils-in-england-forecast-2025-to-2026

Bills will be issued in due course by local councils.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what discussions she has had with the Secretary of State for Education on the potential impact of changes to childminder tax arrangements on the delivery of funded childcare hours.

Answered by Dan Tomlinson - Exchequer Secretary (HM Treasury)

Childminders play a vital role in childcare. The Government has eased rules on working from schools and community centres and increased early years funding rates above 2023 average fees. These increases reflect increased costs, and from April 2026, local authorities must pass at least 97 per cent of funding to providers.

At Budget 2025 the Government confirmed that the standard rules for calculating income tax would apply to childminders who are mandated into Making Tax Digital (MTD). HMRC engaged with stakeholders including Coram PACEY ahead of Budget 2025. We will phase in this change between 2026 and 2028, in line with the MTD income thresholds. The threshold from April 2026 is £50,000 of qualifying income, reducing to £30,000 from April 2027 and £20,000 from April 2028. Childminders not within MTD can continue to use existing arrangements if they wish.

Childminders within MTD can continue to claim tax relief for wear and tear by deducting the actual cost of buying, repairing or replacing items. They can also deduct the cost of business expenses such as utilities, cleaning and equipment. This ensures childminders receive tax relief for all of the costs that they incur in relation to their childminding business. Childminders may be better off deducting actual costs, if deductions under the existing arrangements are lower than their actual expenses.

HMRC will publish updated guidance for childminders in early 2026. Guidance on business expenses and on MTD for Income Tax is already available on GOV.UK. The Government will closely monitor the impacts of the policy over the course of the first year.

The Chancellor discusses a range of policy matters with Ministerial colleagues.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what recent assessment she has made of the potential impact of changes to business rates on the hospitality sector in Surrey Heath constituency.

Answered by Dan Tomlinson - Exchequer Secretary (HM Treasury)

At the Budget, the VOA announced updated property values from the 2026 revaluation. This revaluation is the first since the pandemic, which has led to significant increases in rateable values for some properties as they recover from the pandemic.

To respond to those who are seeing large increases, Government has already acted to limit increases in bills, announcing a support package worth £4.3 billion package at the Budget.

From April, every pub and live music venue will get 15% off its new business rates bill on top of the support announced at Budget and then bills will be frozen in real terms for a further two years.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what discussions she has had with the Secretary of State for Business and Trade on including retail businesses in the proposed business rates relief for pubs.

Answered by Dan Tomlinson - Exchequer Secretary (HM Treasury)

The Chancellor holds regular discussions with her Ministerial colleagues about a broad range of matters.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what assessment has been made of the impact of potential changes to the childminder tax agreement (BIM 52751) on the financial sustainability of childminders in Surrey.

Answered by Dan Tomlinson - Exchequer Secretary (HM Treasury)

Childminders play a vital role in childcare. The Government has eased rules on working from schools and community centres and increased early years funding rates above 2023 average fees. These increases reflect increased costs, and from April 2026, local authorities must pass at least 97 per cent of funding to providers.

At Budget 2025 the Government confirmed that the standard rules for calculating income tax would apply to childminders who are mandated into Making Tax Digital (MTD). HMRC engaged with stakeholders including Coram PACEY ahead of Budget 2025. We will phase in this change between 2026 and 2028, in line with the MTD income thresholds. The threshold from April 2026 is £50,000 of qualifying income, reducing to £30,000 from April 2027 and £20,000 from April 2028. Childminders not within MTD can continue to use existing arrangements if they wish.

Childminders within MTD can continue to claim tax relief for wear and tear by deducting the actual cost of buying, repairing or replacing items. They can also deduct the cost of business expenses such as utilities, cleaning and equipment. This ensures childminders receive tax relief for all of the costs that they incur in relation to their childminding business. Childminders may be better off deducting actual costs, if deductions under the existing arrangements are lower than their actual expenses.

HMRC will publish updated guidance for childminders in early 2026. Guidance on business expenses and on MTD for Income Tax is already available on GOV.UK. The Government will closely monitor the impacts of the policy over the course of the first year.

The Chancellor discusses a range of policy matters with Ministerial colleagues.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what assessment she has made of the effectiveness of the Valuation Office Agency’s valuation method for small independent hotels.

Answered by Dan Tomlinson - Exchequer Secretary (HM Treasury)

We recognise that hotels have expressed concerns about how they are valued for business rates. Hotels valuations are undertaken in a different way to some other sectors. The methodology used is well established, but, as with pubs, the government has announced it will review the way hotels are valued to ensure it accurately reflects the rental value for these sectors.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what assessment her Department has made of the effectiveness of the methodology used by the Valuation Office Agency to calculate recent rateable value increases for self-catering accommodation.

Answered by Dan Tomlinson - Exchequer Secretary (HM Treasury)

Self-catered accommodation is valued in the same way as any other class of non-domestic property; through applying the statutory and common law principles that apply across non-domestic rating.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what factors the Valuation Office Agency takes into consideration in (a) coastal and (b) tourism-dependent areas when setting rateable values for self-catering accommodation.

Answered by Dan Tomlinson - Exchequer Secretary (HM Treasury)

Self-catered accommodation is valued in the same way as any other class of non-domestic property; through applying the statutory and common law principles that apply across non-domestic rating.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, whether she has assessed the risks associated with holdings of United States Treasury securities; and what steps she is taking to manage prudential financial risk in relation to those holdings.

Answered by Lucy Rigby - Economic Secretary (HM Treasury)

HM Treasury works closely with the UK’s independent financial regulators, including the Bank of England and Financial Conduct Authority, to monitor risks to the UK financial system.

The results from the latest Bank of England Bank Capital Stress Tests from December 2025, indicate that major UK banks have the capacity to continue to support the economy through a stress scenario that incorporated a severe global aggregate supply shock, high advanced-economy inflation, higher global interest rates, deep and simultaneous recessions in the UK and global economies, with materially higher unemployment, and sharp falls in asset prices.

These results support the FPC’s judgement that banks’ current levels of capital are sufficient to support the real economy, even if economic, financial and business conditions became substantially worse than expected.

The Bank of England’s 2024 System Wide Exploratory Scenario also showed the system has an improved ability to absorb large price swings in assets, including sovereign bonds.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what assessment she has made of the potential merits of a) making HMRC taxpayer data available to Electoral Registration Officers for the purposes of Automatic Voter Registration, and b) allowing people who update their address with HMRC to update their voter registration automatically at the same time.

Answered by Dan Tomlinson - Exchequer Secretary (HM Treasury)

The taxpayer information HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) holds is subject to a strict statutory duty of confidentiality. HMRC will share taxpayer information however, where there is a lawful basis to do so and to support wider government objectives. In July 2025 the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (“MHCLG”) published its strategy for modern and secure elections with a focus on the effective and safe sharing of data to improve voter registration. HMRC has been working in collaboration with officials from MHCLG to identify data-enabled opportunities to support their objective of improving voter registration.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what estimate she has made of increase in business rate receipts in England from 2025-26 to 2026-27 as a consequence of the CPI inflation uprating.

Answered by Dan Tomlinson - Exchequer Secretary (HM Treasury)

Details on business rates receipts for 2025-26 and 2026-27 are set out in the OBR’s economic and fiscal outlook.

The further support for pubs and live music venues will be scored at a fiscal event in the usual way.

In the coming financial year, because of the government’s interventions, the business rate system is raising broadly the same amount of revenue as it was forecast to before the Budget in Spring 2025.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what assessment she has made of the cost of (a) the potential business rates relief for pubs and (b) the cost of extending this relief to (i) the hospitality sector and (ii) the retail sector.

Answered by Dan Tomlinson - Exchequer Secretary (HM Treasury)

From April, every pub and live music venue will get 15% off its new business rates bill on top of the support announced at Budget and then bills will be frozen in real terms for a further two years.

Final costings will be confirmed at a fiscal event in the usual way.

The retail and hospitality sectors will continue to benefit from the £4.3 billion support package announced at Budget. This support package means most properties seeing increases will see them capped at 15% or less next year, or £800 for the smallest.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, with reference to her Department's correspondence entitled 1/2026: Pubs and live music venues relief 2026 to 2027, what estimate she has made of the number of (a) pub and (b) live music hereditaments that will benefit.

Answered by Dan Tomlinson - Exchequer Secretary (HM Treasury)

The number of pubs and live music venues that will benefit from this relief will be determined, ultimately, by the relief decisions made by councils in line with the guidance published.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, if she will commission a cross-government impact assessment for (a) higher National Insurance on employers, (b) higher business rates and (c) the overnight visitors levy on (i) the economic viability of the hotel sector, (ii) costs to consumers, (iii) domestic tourism and (iv) foreign visitor tourism.

Answered by Dan Tomlinson - Exchequer Secretary (HM Treasury)

The Government recognises the important contribution that the hotel and wider hospitality sectors make to the economy, to local communities and to the UK’s appeal as a destination for domestic and international tourists.

The Government carefully considers the impact of tax measures on businesses, including in hospitality and tourism, within the context of the need to repair the public finances and to fund high‑quality public services. Relevant impact notes and assessments are published at fiscal events and otherwise as necessary in line with the Government’s usual practice.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, whether her Department has directed HMRC to review the application of VAT upon medicines supplied free-of-charge via EAMS and other compassionate access schemes.

Answered by Dan Tomlinson - Exchequer Secretary (HM Treasury)

VAT is the UK’s second largest tax, forecast to raise £180 billion in 2025/26. Taxation is a vital source of revenue which helps to fund public services.

The Early Access to Medicines Scheme (EAMS) allows patients access to free medicines for life threatening conditions before receiving full NHS approval.

Under UK VAT law, some transactions where no money changes hands are treated as if a supply has been made – these are called deemed supplies. This is to keep the system fair. If a business has reclaimed VAT on costs (like making or importing goods), it should not avoid accounting VAT when those goods leave the business for free.

Whether VAT applies to medicines or treatments provided for free under the EAMS will depend on the precise facts of the case. In certain circumstances the giving of goods away for free can be outside the scope of VAT. Where the supply is within the scope of VAT a relief may apply, meaning the supply can be made VAT free.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, with reference to the sunset clause for the Energy Saving Materials VAT relief on 31 March 2027, whether her Department has conducted an impact assessment on the potential effect on Net Zero targets if the relief reverts to 5% in 2027; and if she will consider extending the zero-rate period to help provide long-term certainty for the low-carbon heating industry.

Answered by Dan Tomlinson - Exchequer Secretary (HM Treasury)

This Government is committed to improving the quality and sustainability of our housing stock, through improvements such as low carbon heating, insulation, solar panels and batteries. This will be vital to making the UK more energy resilient and meeting our 2050 Net Zero commitment.

Installations of qualifying energy-saving materials (ESMs) in residential accommodation and buildings used solely for a charitable purpose benefit from a temporary VAT zero rate until March 2027, after which they will revert to the reduced rate of VAT at five per cent.

The Chancellor makes decisions on tax policy at fiscal events in the context of the overall public finances

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what is the (a) gross and (b) net revenue raised for her Department from the UK Emissions Trading Scheme in the 2024-25 financial year, broken down by auction receipts, administrative costs, and any revenue recycling and hypothecation.

Answered by Dan Tomlinson - Exchequer Secretary (HM Treasury)

Receipts from auctioning of UK Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS) allowances accrue to the exchequer. The Economic and Fiscal Outlook (November 2025) published by the OBR confirms the ETS outturn for 2024-25.

The administrative cost of the UK ETS can be found in the National Audit Office’s report on the UK ETS.

The UK does not hypothecate revenue from the UK ETS, which is subject to a floating carbon price which changes frequently. All receipts from the UK ETS accrue to the consolidated fund, and go to funding government priorities, which includes decarbonisation support for ETS participants.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what assessment her Department has made of the impact of Air Passenger Duty on domestic air routes and regional airport connectivity in the UK, compared with the approach taken by other European countries to supporting internal air connectivity.

Answered by Dan Tomlinson - Exchequer Secretary (HM Treasury)

The Government is committed to the long-term future of the aviation sector in the UK and recognises the importance of maintaining a thriving and competitive aviation sector in the UK to deliver connectivity.

In April 2023, reforms to APD took effect, aiming to bolster air connectivity within the UK. This included the introduction of a new band for domestic flights, initially set at half the rate for short-haul international flights. The domestic rate applies to all flights between airports in England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland (excluding private jets) and is currently set at £7 for economy passengers until April 2026.

The Government is clear that APD is an appropriate tax that ensures airlines make a fair contribution to the public finances, particularly given that tickets are VAT free and aviation fuel incurs no duty. Other countries also have different forms of aviation taxes.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what the annual cost to the Exchequer is of the exemption from VAT on repairs enjoyed by museums and galleries.

Answered by Dan Tomlinson - Exchequer Secretary (HM Treasury)

HMRC does not hold data that specifically relates to the refunds of VAT on repairs enjoyed by museums and galleries. HMRC does not hold information on VAT revenue from specific products or services because businesses are not required to provide figures at a product level on their VAT returns, as this would impose an excessive administrative burden.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what estimate she has made of the Barnett consequentials allocated to the Northern Ireland Executive from the £750,000 uplift provided in 2019 for an increase in officer numbers to 20,000 in England and Wales.

Answered by James Murray - Chief Secretary to the Treasury

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, with reference to the business rates revaluation 2026, whether the base liability for charity shops' (a) transitional rate relief and (b) Supporting Small Business Relief includes the application of mandatory charitable rate relief.

Answered by Dan Tomlinson - Exchequer Secretary (HM Treasury)

The base liability for charity shops within the transitional relief scheme does not include the application of mandatory or discretionary charitable rate relief. However, charitable relief where applicable is awarded against the bill after Transitional Rate relief.

A charity is not eligible for Supporting Small Business Rate relief.

For more information on Charitable Rate relief, please see: Business rates relief: Charitable rate relief - GOV.UK

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what estimate she has made of the Barnett consequentials allocated to the Northern Ireland Executive following increases in police funding to PCCs in England and Wales in each year since 2020.

Answered by James Murray - Chief Secretary to the Treasury

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, pursuant to the Answer of 27 November 2025 to WPQ 93664, whether any ongoing assessment is being made of the success of the take up campaign aimed at the 750,000 people who have not yet claimed their matured Child Trust Fund Savings Accounts.

Answered by Lucy Rigby - Economic Secretary (HM Treasury)

The Government is committed to reuniting all young adults with their Child Trust Funds (CTF). HMRC works with CTF providers, industry representatives, and others to enable account owners to be aware of and trace their accounts. Regular HMRC press releases and messages on Facebook, Instagram and Snapchat are supplemented by targeted activities likely to appeal to the demographic.

HMRC plans to expand its CTF communications by adding TikTok to its strategy, continuing work with UCAS, and maintaining regular social media activity.

HMRC also provides a free tracing tool on Gov.uk to help people find their CTF provider (www.gov.uk/child-trust-funds/find-a-child-trust-fund) and has experienced a significant increase in its use this year.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, when she expects to receive the report by the FCA into hidden commission costs connected with car purchase loan schemes.

Answered by Lucy Rigby - Economic Secretary (HM Treasury)

The Government wants to see this issue resolved in an efficient and orderly way that provides certainty for consumers and firms.

The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), as the independent regulator, has consulted on proposals for a motor finance consumer redress scheme. The FCA has indicated that it will finalise the rules of the scheme by the end of March.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, whether she plans to offer the same settlement terms to those facing the Loan Charge as were offered to individuals who previously settled with HM Revenue and Customs.

Answered by Dan Tomlinson - Exchequer Secretary (HM Treasury)

The Government commissioned an independent review of the loan charge to bring the matter to a close for those affected, ensure fairness for all taxpayers and ensure that appropriate support is in place for those subject to the loan charge.

The Government accepted the review’s conclusion that the loan charge was an extraordinary piece of Government policy which necessitated an exceptional response, and is now legislating a new settlement opportunity that will assist those who have not yet settled to do so.

As a result, most individuals could see reductions of at least 50% in their outstanding loan charge liabilities, and an estimated 30% of individuals could have these liabilities written off entirely. To encourage more people to settle, the Government will write off the first £5,000 of liabilities in addition to the proposals put forward by Ray McCann.

The Government’s response to the review represents a fair and proportionate attempt to provide a route to resolution for those who have not yet been able to settle with HMRC. In turn, this requires those individuals to now come forward and engage with HMRC in good faith.

Tax avoidance deprives the Exchequer of funds needed to deliver vital public services and it is right that resources are targeted to stop this. There are no plans to apply the review’s recommendations beyond those individuals and employers with outstanding liabilities that were the focus of the review.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what assessment she has made of the the value for money of the Loan Charge.

Answered by Dan Tomlinson - Exchequer Secretary (HM Treasury)

The Government commissioned an independent review of the loan charge to bring the matter to a close for those affected, ensure fairness for all taxpayers and ensure that appropriate support is in place for those subject to the loan charge.

The Government accepted the review’s conclusion that the loan charge was an extraordinary piece of Government policy which necessitated an exceptional response, and is now legislating a new settlement opportunity that will assist those who have not yet settled to do so.

As a result, most individuals could see reductions of at least 50% in their outstanding loan charge liabilities, and an estimated 30% of individuals could have these liabilities written off entirely. To encourage more people to settle, the Government will write off the first £5,000 of liabilities in addition to the proposals put forward by Ray McCann.

The Government’s response to the review represents a fair and proportionate attempt to provide a route to resolution for those who have not yet been able to settle with HMRC. In turn, this requires those individuals to now come forward and engage with HMRC in good faith.

Tax avoidance deprives the Exchequer of funds needed to deliver vital public services and it is right that resources are targeted to stop this. There are no plans to apply the review’s recommendations beyond those individuals and employers with outstanding liabilities that were the focus of the review.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, if she will make an assessment of the potential merits of offering the same terms to be given to those facing the Loan Charge to those who have previously settled with HMRC.

Answered by Dan Tomlinson - Exchequer Secretary (HM Treasury)

The Government commissioned an independent review of the loan charge to bring the matter to a close for those affected, ensure fairness for all taxpayers and ensure that appropriate support is in place for those subject to the loan charge.

The Government accepted the review’s conclusion that the loan charge was an extraordinary piece of Government policy which necessitated an exceptional response, and is now legislating a new settlement opportunity that will assist those who have not yet settled to do so.

As a result, most individuals could see reductions of at least 50% in their outstanding loan charge liabilities, and an estimated 30% of individuals could have these liabilities written off entirely. To encourage more people to settle, the Government will write off the first £5,000 of liabilities in addition to the proposals put forward by Ray McCann.

The Government’s response to the review represents a fair and proportionate attempt to provide a route to resolution for those who have not yet been able to settle with HMRC. In turn, this requires those individuals to now come forward and engage with HMRC in good faith.

Tax avoidance deprives the Exchequer of funds needed to deliver vital public services and it is right that resources are targeted to stop this. There are no plans to apply the review’s recommendations beyond those individuals and employers with outstanding liabilities that were the focus of the review.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what estimate she has made of the number of people who will settle their disguised remuneration liabilities as a result of the McCann Review into Loan Charge settlement terms.

Answered by Dan Tomlinson - Exchequer Secretary (HM Treasury)

The Government commissioned an independent review of the loan charge to bring the matter to a close for those affected, ensure fairness for all taxpayers and ensure that appropriate support is in place for those subject to the loan charge.

The Government accepted the review’s conclusion that the loan charge was an extraordinary piece of Government policy which necessitated an exceptional response, and is now legislating a new settlement opportunity that will assist those who have not yet settled to do so.

As a result, most individuals could see reductions of at least 50% in their outstanding loan charge liabilities, and an estimated 30% of individuals could have these liabilities written off entirely. To encourage more people to settle, the Government will write off the first £5,000 of liabilities in addition to the proposals put forward by Ray McCann.

The Government’s response to the review represents a fair and proportionate attempt to provide a route to resolution for those who have not yet been able to settle with HMRC. In turn, this requires those individuals to now come forward and engage with HMRC in good faith.

Tax avoidance deprives the Exchequer of funds needed to deliver vital public services and it is right that resources are targeted to stop this. There are no plans to apply the review’s recommendations beyond those individuals and employers with outstanding liabilities that were the focus of the review.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what the (a) total number of full-time equivalent customer service staff employed by HM Revenue and Customs was in each of the last ten financial years and (b) number of these positions that were based in (i) call centres, (ii) face-to-face service locations and (iii) digital support teams.

Answered by Dan Tomlinson - Exchequer Secretary (HM Treasury)

HMRC operates a flexible resourcing model, meaning staff are deployed across different types of customer service work throughout the year. This approach allows the department to direct people to the areas of highest demand, whether that is helplines, post correspondence, webchat, or other customer contact channels. Because staff move between these activities as demand changes, HMRC does not separate out staffing into specific categories.

However, HMRC can provide overall full‑time equivalent figures for Customer Services from 2019-20 to 2024-25, noting that these staff may work across several frontline customer service functions depending on business need.

HMRC is unable to provide figures prior to 2019-20 because doing so would exceed the cost threshold for answering written parliamentary questions. This is due to the information, where it is available, being held across multiple systems that do not align with current reporting definitions, and producing the data would require significant separate interrogation and analysis.

Average number of frontline customer service staff (000):

• 2019-20: 20.0
• 2020-21: 19.6
• 2021-22: 19.2
• 2022-23: 19.4
• 2023-24: 18.2
• 2024-25: 17.4

Most customers are satisfied with the service they are receiving from HMRC. Satisfaction with phone, webchat and digital services was 80.0% to the end of November 2025-26, meeting their 80% customer satisfaction target. Customer satisfaction with digital services is consistently above 80% (82.9% up to the end of November 2025-26).

Notes:

1. Staff numbers represent averages of monthly data.
2. Numbers include permanent and temporary staff for HMRC Customer Services Group. Numbers are for full-time equivalents.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what assessment her Department has made of the potential impact of the Office for Budget Responsibility’s assessment of the impact of tobacco prices on CPI inflation in December 2025 on her (a) plan to apply an uprating of RPI+2% and a one-off tobacco duty increase on 1 October 2026 and (b) other tobacco duty policies.

Answered by Dan Tomlinson - Exchequer Secretary (HM Treasury)

At Autumn Budget 2024, the Government renewed the commitment to a tobacco duty escalator, which increases duty by 2 per cent above RPI inflation at each Budget, until the end of the current Parliament. Budget 2025 announced tobacco duty will rise in line with the escalator as well as an additional one-off increase alongside the introduction of Vaping Duty on 1 October 2026. This is to preserve the price differential between vaping and tobacco products to maintain the incentive to choose vaping over smoking.

A Tax Information and Impact Note setting out the expected impacts was published at Budget and can be found here:

Changes to tobacco duty rates from 26 November 2025 and 1 October 2026 - GOV.UK

The independent Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) are responsible for estimating the impact of Government policies on inflation. The OBR did not include an assessment of the contribution of tobacco excise duty to inflation in the November 2025 Economic and Fiscal Outlook.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, whether her Department has made an assessment of the potential impact of applying only one of the (a) RPI-linked uprating and (b) one-off tobacco duty increase scheduled to take effect from 1 October 2026 on inflation.

Answered by Dan Tomlinson - Exchequer Secretary (HM Treasury)

At Autumn Budget 2024, the Government renewed the commitment to a tobacco duty escalator, which increases duty by 2 per cent above RPI inflation at each Budget, until the end of the current Parliament. Budget 2025 announced tobacco duty will rise in line with the escalator as well as an additional one-off increase alongside the introduction of Vaping Duty on 1 October 2026. This is to preserve the price differential between vaping and tobacco products to maintain the incentive to choose vaping over smoking.

A Tax Information and Impact Note setting out the expected impacts was published at Budget and can be found here:

Changes to tobacco duty rates from 26 November 2025 and 1 October 2026 - GOV.UK

The independent Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) are responsible for estimating the impact of Government policies on inflation. The OBR did not include an assessment of the contribution of tobacco excise duty to inflation in the November 2025 Economic and Fiscal Outlook.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what assessment she has made of the potential merits of making thatching existing properties zero-rated for VAT.

Answered by Dan Tomlinson - Exchequer Secretary (HM Treasury)

VAT is a broad-based tax on consumption, and the 20 per cent standard rate applies to most goods and services. Outside of a limited number of VAT reliefs aimed at stimulating the property market, the standard VAT rate of 20 per cent applies to most construction work. This includes thatching.

Tax breaks reduce the revenue available for vital public services and must represent value for money for the taxpayer. Exceptions to the standard rate have always been limited and balanced against affordability considerations.

One of the key considerations when assessing a new VAT relief is whether the cost saving is likely to be passed on to consumers. Evidence suggests that businesses only partially pass on any savings from lower VAT rates. In some cases, reliefs do not represent good value for money, as there is no guarantee that savings will be passed on to consumers.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, whether she plans to remove VAT from refurbished building work.

Answered by Dan Tomlinson - Exchequer Secretary (HM Treasury)

VAT is a broad-based tax on consumption and the 20 per cent standard rate applies to most goods and services. Exceptions to the standard rate have always been limited and balanced against affordability considerations.

Residential renovations are subject to a reduced rate of VAT of five per cent if they meet certain conditions. These include conversions of buildings from one residential use to another, conversions from commercial to residential use, and the renovation of properties that have been empty for two or more years.

The Chancellor makes decisions on tax policy at fiscal events in the context of the overall public finances.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what comparative assessment she has made of the potential impact of alcohol duty policy on on-trade venues such as pubs, with off-trade alcohol sales in supermarkets.

Answered by Dan Tomlinson - Exchequer Secretary (HM Treasury)

The importance of the 'on-trade' is recognised in the alcohol duty system via Draught Relief, which ensures eligible products served on draught pay less duty than their packaged equivalents. The Chancellor significantly increased the generosity of this relief at Autumn Budget 2024, taking a penny of duty off a typical strength pint and reducing overall duty receipts by £85m. Draught beer and cider now pay 13.9% less in tax than their packaged equivalents – a 50% increase on the draught discount under the previous government (9.2%).

At Autumn Budget 2025, the Chancellor confirmed that alcohol duty would be uprated on 1 February 2026 to maintain its real-terms value. The government does not expect this to have any significant impact on competition between the on- and off-trades.

An assessment of the impacts of the inflation-linked uprating at the most recent Budget is published within the Tax Impact and Information Note (TIIN) here:  https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/alcohol-duty-rates-change/alcohol-duty-uprating#summary-of-impacts.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, whether her Department has conducted a comparative assessment of Air Passenger Duty rates in the UK with aviation passenger taxes and equivalent charges in other European countries; and whether such analysis is used to inform decisions on Air Passenger Duty policy.

Answered by Dan Tomlinson - Exchequer Secretary (HM Treasury)

Air Passenger Duty (APD) applies to airlines, not individual passengers, and is the principal tax on the aviation sector. It is expected to raise £4.7 billion in 2025-26.

The Government is clear that APD is an appropriate tax that ensures airlines make a fair contribution to the public finances, particularly given that tickets are VAT free and aviation fuel incurs no duty. Other countries also have different forms of aviation taxes.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, pursuant to the Answer of 5 February 2026 to Question 109216, what estimate she has made of the annual amount of UK Emissions Trading Scheme revenue generated from domestic maritime emissions allocated to maritime decarbonisation projects by programme.

Answered by Dan Tomlinson - Exchequer Secretary (HM Treasury)

Domestic maritime emissions will be subject to the UK Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS) from July this year. The OBR’s November 2025 Economic and Fiscal Outlook states that the UK ETS overall raised £3.4bn in 2024-25. Revenues from the scheme are not hypothecated but accrue to the consolidated fund, and support spending on government priorities, which includes maritime decarbonisation.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, when she will respond to Question 107479 regarding the Valuation Office Agency’s valuation method for small independent hotels.

Answered by Dan Tomlinson - Exchequer Secretary (HM Treasury)

An answer was submitted to 107479 on 6 February 2026.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask His Majesty's Government whether the tender for the Banknote Supply and Service Agreement (notice identifier 2026/S 000-004172) includes a requirement to produce the banknotes in the UK.

Answered by Lord Livermore - Financial Secretary (HM Treasury)

On 19^th January 2026, the Bank of England published a tender notice for the award of the Banknote Supply and Service Agreement on the Government’s Find a Tender website. This contract stipulates banknotes must be produced and issued from the Bank of England’s secure printing facility in Debden, Essex. Only the Bank of England issues banknotes in England and Wales, but six banks in Scotland and Northern Ireland can also issue banknotes, as listed on the Bank of England’s website.

The Bank of England has retained sole responsibility for developing, producing, and issuing banknotes in England and Wales since 1921. Therefore, the specifics of the Banknote Supply and Service Agreement is also within the Bank of England’s remit to draft and negotiate.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask His Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of the impact of workplace financial wellbeing companies on financial inclusion.

Answered by Lord Livermore - Financial Secretary (HM Treasury)

The Government recognises that employers can play an important role in supporting the financial wellbeing of their employees. The Financial Inclusion Strategy seeks to support employers who want to build the financial resilience of their workforce.

Payroll savings schemes are identified in the Strategy as a specific, impactful step employers can take to achieve this goal. The Strategy outlines the Government’s work with the Financial Conduct Authority to provide greater regulatory clarity to employers, so they can offer these schemes with confidence. The Money and Pensions Service is also working with Nest Insight and The Investing and Savings Alliance on the launch of a National Coalition of Employers to encourage uptake among firms.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask His Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of the effectiveness of due diligence checks on politically exposed persons undertaken by financial institutions in the United Kingdom.

Answered by Lord Livermore - Financial Secretary (HM Treasury)

The Government is clear that the enhanced due diligence requirements contained in the Money Laundering Regulations in relation to politically exposed persons provide valuable, actionable intelligence on those who would seek to abuse their positions, including hostile states and organised criminals. This helps to protect the UK from money laundering and corruption.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, whether her Department has made an estimate with the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport of the additional costs incurred by musicians seeking to perform in the European Union due to delays in the issuance of (a) A1 forms and (b) Musical Instrument Certificates since 2021.

Answered by Dan Tomlinson - Exchequer Secretary (HM Treasury)

The Government recognises the importance of touring to the UK’s world‑leading music sector and continues to work closely with industry to support musicians performing in the European Union.

A1 Forms

HMRC has not made an estimate, jointly or separately with the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS), of any additional costs incurred by musicians as a result of delays in the issuance of A1 forms since 2021.

While musicians may use the CA3837 A1 application form, this form is also used by many other self‑employed individuals. HMRC does not record applicants’ occupations within the A1 process, and the systems used do not capture or store any information that would allow us to identify touring musicians as a distinct group. It is therefore not possible to provide data on processing times or outstanding applications specifically for musicians for any of the years requested.

HMRC recognises how important it is for customers to receive their A1 certificates promptly and is strengthening the service to support this.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what the average length of time taken to issue A1 forms to touring musicians was in each year since 2021.

Answered by Dan Tomlinson - Exchequer Secretary (HM Treasury)

The Government recognises the importance of touring to the UK’s world‑leading music sector and continues to work closely with industry to support musicians performing in the European Union.

A1 Forms

HMRC has not made an estimate, jointly or separately with the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS), of any additional costs incurred by musicians as a result of delays in the issuance of A1 forms since 2021.

While musicians may use the CA3837 A1 application form, this form is also used by many other self‑employed individuals. HMRC does not record applicants’ occupations within the A1 process, and the systems used do not capture or store any information that would allow us to identify touring musicians as a distinct group. It is therefore not possible to provide data on processing times or outstanding applications specifically for musicians for any of the years requested.

HMRC recognises how important it is for customers to receive their A1 certificates promptly and is strengthening the service to support this.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, how many A1 form applications from touring musicians were outstanding at the end of each year since 2021.

Answered by Dan Tomlinson - Exchequer Secretary (HM Treasury)

The Government recognises the importance of touring to the UK’s world‑leading music sector and continues to work closely with industry to support musicians performing in the European Union.

A1 Forms

HMRC has not made an estimate, jointly or separately with the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS), of any additional costs incurred by musicians as a result of delays in the issuance of A1 forms since 2021.

While musicians may use the CA3837 A1 application form, this form is also used by many other self‑employed individuals. HMRC does not record applicants’ occupations within the A1 process, and the systems used do not capture or store any information that would allow us to identify touring musicians as a distinct group. It is therefore not possible to provide data on processing times or outstanding applications specifically for musicians for any of the years requested.

HMRC recognises how important it is for customers to receive their A1 certificates promptly and is strengthening the service to support this.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, how will property subject to tenancies agreed under (a) the Agricultural Holdings Act 1986 and (b) the Agricultural Tenancies Act 1995 be valued for the purposes of calculating an estate's inheritance tax liability.

Answered by Dan Tomlinson - Exchequer Secretary (HM Treasury)

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what assessment her Department has made of the potential impact of Making Tax Digital on the childminding sector.

Answered by Dan Tomlinson - Exchequer Secretary (HM Treasury)

The government has worked extensively with taxpayers, representative bodies and software developers to ensure Making Tax Digital (MTD) for income tax works well for businesses of all types and sizes.

MTD will help businesses and landlords keep on top of their tax affairs. It places small businesses on a more digital footing, with digital tools helping to reduce errors and making annual tax returns easier.

The government has worked with the software industry to ensure a wide range of options are available to suit different needs and budgets, including low cost and free software supporting those with the simplest affairs. Many products are designed for users who manage their own tax affairs or those new to digital tools.

As with other businesses, MTD will allow childminders to keep better track of their finances, helping their businesses to grow. Childminders moving to MTD for income tax can continue to claim tax relief for household costs, wear and tear of household items and furniture, and food and drink, by deducting actual business costs. This ensures childminders receive tax relief for all of the costs that they incur in relation to their childminding business.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, for what reason the proposed High Value Council Tax Surcharge will be levied on the property owner of the dwelling.

Answered by Dan Tomlinson - Exchequer Secretary (HM Treasury)

The High Value Council Tax Surcharge is intended to address aspects of unfairness in the current Council Tax system. Owners of properties worth £10 million should not be paying less tax than those renting an ordinary family home.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, with reference to her Department’s press release entitled Act now: 864,000 sole traders and landlords face new tax rules in two months, published on 5 February 2026, what assessment she has made of the potential impact of the requirement to maintain digital records and submit quarterly tax updates under Making Tax Digital for Income Tax on sole traders and landlords.

Answered by Dan Tomlinson - Exchequer Secretary (HM Treasury)

The government is undertaking a range of activities to ensure those needing to use Making Tax Digital (MTD) for Income Tax from April 2026 are ready and able to do so successfully.

This includes targeted media campaigns, awareness letters, developing guidance, and working with the software industry to ensure a broad range of MTD‑compatible products is available, to suit different needs and budgets. Free options will support those with the simplest affairs.

MTD will help businesses and landlords keep on top of their tax affairs. It places small businesses on a more digital footing, with digital tools helping to reduce errors and making annual tax returns easier.

HMRC’s latest published assessment of the potential impact of MTD for Income Tax across different taxpayer groups is available at:

Extension of Making Tax Digital for Income Tax Self Assessment to sole traders and landlords - GOV.UK

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, with reference to her Department’s press release entitled Act now: 864,000 sole traders and landlords face new tax rules in two months, published on 5 February 2026, what assessment she has made of the adequacy of awareness of the the new Making Tax Digital for income tax rules among sole traders and landlords.

Answered by Dan Tomlinson - Exchequer Secretary (HM Treasury)

The government is undertaking a range of activities to ensure those needing to use Making Tax Digital (MTD) for Income Tax from April 2026 are ready and able to do so successfully.

This includes targeted media campaigns, awareness letters, developing guidance, and working with the software industry to ensure a broad range of MTD‑compatible products is available, to suit different needs and budgets. Free options will support those with the simplest affairs.

MTD will help businesses and landlords keep on top of their tax affairs. It places small businesses on a more digital footing, with digital tools helping to reduce errors and making annual tax returns easier.

HMRC’s latest published assessment of the potential impact of MTD for Income Tax across different taxpayer groups is available at:

Extension of Making Tax Digital for Income Tax Self Assessment to sole traders and landlords - GOV.UK

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, with reference to her Department’s press release entitled Act now: 864,000 sole traders and landlords face new tax rules in two months, published on 5 February 2026, what steps HM Revenue and Customs is taking to ensure that sole traders and landlords impacted by the new Making Tax Digital for Income Tax rules are aware of their obligations.

Answered by Dan Tomlinson - Exchequer Secretary (HM Treasury)

The government is undertaking a range of activities to ensure those needing to use Making Tax Digital (MTD) for Income Tax from April 2026 are ready and able to do so successfully.

This includes targeted media campaigns, awareness letters, developing guidance, and working with the software industry to ensure a broad range of MTD‑compatible products is available, to suit different needs and budgets. Free options will support those with the simplest affairs.

MTD will help businesses and landlords keep on top of their tax affairs. It places small businesses on a more digital footing, with digital tools helping to reduce errors and making annual tax returns easier.

HMRC’s latest published assessment of the potential impact of MTD for Income Tax across different taxpayer groups is available at:

Extension of Making Tax Digital for Income Tax Self Assessment to sole traders and landlords - GOV.UK

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, whether she has conducted a comparative assessment of the potential impact of (a) VAT rates on food and drink served in pubs compared with (b) VAT rates applied in comparable European countries.

Answered by Dan Tomlinson - Exchequer Secretary (HM Treasury)

The Government recognises the significant contribution made by pubs to economic growth and social life in the UK.

VAT is a broad-based tax on consumption, and the 20 per cent standard rate applies to most goods and services. Reduced rates of VAT come at a significant cost to the Exchequer, reduce the revenue available for vital public services, and must represent value for money for the taxpayer.

HMRC estimates that the cost of reducing the 20 per cent standard rate of VAT on all accommodation and food and beverage services would be as follows in 2026-27: (a) to 15%: £5 billion, (b) to 12.5%: £8 billion (c) to 10%: £10.5 billion, (d) to 5%: £17 billion, (e) to 0%: £23.5 billion.

The Government is aware that some European countries apply reduced VAT rates to hospitality, reflecting different tax systems and policy choices. The Government keeps all taxes under review, with decisions on VAT rates taken by the Chancellor at fiscal events.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, whether she has made an assessment of the potential merits of introducing an inflation adjustment mechanism for capital gains tax calculations.

Answered by Dan Tomlinson - Exchequer Secretary (HM Treasury)

An indexation allowance previously existed when Capital Gains Tax (CGT) was charged at income tax rates, with a top rate of 40 per cent. The current rates of 18 and 24 per cent are significantly below the higher rates of income tax, simplifying the calculation of gains for taxpayers.

When considering changes to the tax system, the government has to take into account a wide range of factors, including the fiscal cost, administrative burdens, and complexity it would add to the tax system.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask His Majesty's Government what plans they have (1) to set out a timeline for the review of the Breathing Space scheme required by May 2026, and (2) to consult with debt advice providers such as Citizens Advice as part of that review.

Answered by Lord Livermore - Financial Secretary (HM Treasury)

The Breathing Space scheme allows those in problem debt the space to engage with professional debt advice by providing a temporary relief from creditor enforcement action. Given the link between mental health and problem debt, the scheme also offers a separate entry route for eligible individuals receiving treatment for a mental health crisis.

As is standard for schemes of this nature, HM Treasury will carry out a five-year post implementation review of the scheme to consider its objectives and impact. More widely, the Government monitors the scheme’s operation to ensure it remains an effective tool for individuals and has regular engagement with debt advice providers as part of this.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask His Majesty's Government what analysis they have carried out to support the exclusion of UK listed investment funds as qualifying assets under the Pension Schemes Bill.

Answered by Lord Livermore - Financial Secretary (HM Treasury)

The scope of the qualifying assets provisions in the Bill’s asset allocation reserve powers are designed to reflect the scope of the Mansion House Accord, a voluntary expression of intent by seventeen major pension providers to invest 10% of their main defined contribution default funds in private markets, including 5% in UK private markets.

This reflects the Government’s intention that the reserve powers should not be open-ended but should be capable of serving as a limited backstop to the commitments made in the Mansion House Accord.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, whether her Department holds data on the proportion of roles employed offshore by UK-headquartered companies, broken down by sector and salary band.

Answered by Lucy Rigby - Economic Secretary (HM Treasury)

HM Treasury does not hold data on the proportion of roles employed by UK-headquartered companies to this level of granularity.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask His Majesty's Government when they plan to publish the review of the impact of increased rateable values on hotels.

Answered by Lord Livermore - Financial Secretary (HM Treasury)

The Government has heard concerns from hotels about how they are valued for business rates and has committed to reviewing this. The review will report in time for any decisions that follow to be implemented for the 2029 revaluation.

The Government will set out more detail of the review in due course. Hotels will continue to benefit from the £4.3 billion support package announced at the Budget, including the transitional relief scheme which will cap bill increases.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, if she will publish a list of programmes and schemes that require the UK to provide payments to the EU and are not included in the EU–UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement of 2020.

Answered by Lucy Rigby - Economic Secretary (HM Treasury)

All UK participation in EU programmes takes place under the framework of Part V of the Trade and Cooperation Agreement (TCA). The UK has participated in two EU programmes since 2023, the Horizon Europe research and development programme and Copernicus earth observation programme. The UK will also participate in the Erasmus+ education, youth and sport programme in 2027. Payments are published by the responsible department in its Annual Report and Accounts.

The UK also fulfils obligations related to outstanding EU commitments from the UK’s participation in the EU budget before 31 January 2020, as agreed under the Withdrawal Agreement. This is paid by HM Treasury, and details of payments can be found in HM Treasury's EU Finances Statement, published annually.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, pursuant to answer 104272 of 14 January on Child Benefit, how many of the 5,637 enquiries which remained open have since been addressed; and what the outcomes were.

Answered by Dan Tomlinson - Exchequer Secretary (HM Treasury)

The latest data relating to Child Benefit compliance activity is being quality assured to ensure accuracy. HMRC will write to the Treasury Committee with an update when the work is completed.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, with reference to paragraph 15.27 of the Valuation Office Agency's technical manual, what recent assessment her Department has made of the potential merits of widening the provision to allow landlords to serve blight notices for their properties.

Answered by Dan Tomlinson - Exchequer Secretary (HM Treasury)

Section 168 of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 legislates how Blight Notices can be used. This legislation and any revisions to it fall within the remit of MHCLG.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what steps she is taking to ensure equitable funding by the national wealth fund across all nations of the United Kingdom.

Answered by James Murray - Chief Secretary to the Treasury

The National Wealth Fund's Strategic Plan sets out its ambition to accelerate place-based investment across all four nations of the UK, and it has dedicated directors in each nation to support this.

The National Wealth Fund is already investing in Wales and will continue to work closely with devolved governments and local leaders to help accelerate project delivery and drive regional growth.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what estimate she has made of the spending of the national wealth fund in Wales.

Answered by James Murray - Chief Secretary to the Treasury

The National Wealth Fund's Strategic Plan sets out its ambition to accelerate place-based investment across all four nations of the UK, and it has dedicated directors in each nation to support this.

The National Wealth Fund is already investing in Wales and will continue to work closely with devolved governments and local leaders to help accelerate project delivery and drive regional growth.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, whether she has made a recent assessment of the potential merits of abolishing the Office for Budget Responsibility.

Answered by James Murray - Chief Secretary to the Treasury

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, how much capital funding has the Welsh Government received for highway maintenance up to 2030.

Answered by James Murray - Chief Secretary to the Treasury

The Department for Transport received additional funding for highway maintenance at Spending Review 2025, and the Barnett formula was applied in the usual way in line with the funding arrangements set out in the Statement of Funding Policy. At Spending Reviews, because the Barnett formula is not applied to the individual programmes driving the change in a UK department’s DEL budget, the Barnett consequentials associated with highway maintenance funding cannot be identified.

The Block Grant Transparency publication includes a breakdown of changes in the devolved governments’ block grant funding. The most recent report was published in October 2025.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what assessment she has made of the potential impact of her policy of no reduced rate or exemption for children or family travelling in premium economy of Air Passenger Duty on families travelling with children in premium economy cabins on long haul flights; and how the UK’s approach compares with aviation passenger tax regimes in other European countries.

Answered by Dan Tomlinson - Exchequer Secretary (HM Treasury)

Air Passenger Duty (APD) applies to airlines, not individual passengers, and is the principal tax on the aviation sector. It is expected to raise £4.7 billion in 2025-26 and it aims to ensure that airlines make a fair contribution to the public finances, particularly given that tickets are VAT free and aviation fuel incurs no duty. The distance-based band structure ensures that those who travel furthest, and in the greatest comfort, incur a greater tax liability. Other countries also have different forms of aviation taxes.

Children under 16 years old on the date of the flight, and in the lowest class of travel, are exempt from APD. If children under 16 years old are travelling in any other class (such as premium economy) or in business jets, they are not exempt. Children under 2 years old without a seat are exempt from Air Passenger Duty for all classes of travel.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, whether HMRC plans to publish draft guidance for industry on the operation of the UK carbon border adjustment mechanism after spring 2026.

Answered by Dan Tomlinson - Exchequer Secretary (HM Treasury)

HMRC will publish detailed guidance ahead of 2027. The government recognises such guidance is essential for businesses to prepare for the introduction of the tax and meet the new requirements, effective from 1 January 2027. HMRC will work closely with key stakeholders to ensure the guidance is comprehensive and easy to understand in advance of publication.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask His Majesty's Government whether the Crown Estate holds a register of escheat land based on square footage; and if so, whether that register is a publicly accessible document.

Answered by Lord Livermore - Financial Secretary (HM Treasury)

The Crown Estate does not manage escheated land, which is effectively ownerless. The Crown Estate has a limited remit in relation to escheated property and the only action that it may take is to dispose of the land to an appropriate person or body. This disposal would create a new freehold interest in the property.

Consequently, there is no requirement for the Crown Estate to be notified of escheated property, and it does not maintain a comprehensive register of such properties.

The Crown Estate does have a record of properties that has been notified to it by external parties as potentially subject to escheat, but this information has not been verified and is not published.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, whether she has made an assessment of the potential merits of excluding the state pension as a form of taxable income.

Answered by Torsten Bell - Parliamentary Secretary (HM Treasury)

Exempting the State Pension from income tax entirely would reduce tax receipts substantially undermining the public services we all rely on – especially the NHS.

However, I can confirm that those whose sole income is the basic and full new State Pension, without any increments, will not pay any income tax this tax year or next.

Furthermore, the Chancellor has said that those whose only income is the basic or new State Pension without any increments will not have to pay income tax over this Parliament.

The Government will set out more details in due course.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, if she will make it her policy to publish the total business rates receipts from all pubs for each financial year from 2023-24 to 2029-30.

Answered by Dan Tomlinson - Exchequer Secretary (HM Treasury)

Local Authorities do not report to Central Government how much business rates revenue they raise from different types of businesses. The Government therefore does not have this data to publish and nor did the previous Government.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, pursuant to the Answer 108352 of 29 January 2026 on Child Benefit: Maladministration, if the erroneous suspension of child benefits through the data sharing agreement was raised as part of the weekly feedback sharing; and if she will publish the communication.

Answered by Dan Tomlinson - Exchequer Secretary (HM Treasury)

Mechanisms for sharing weekly management information and feedback from compliance teams were in place. HMRC do not routinely publish information of this nature.

HMRC use international travel data and other checks to help tackle Child Benefit error and fraud, which is expected to save around £350 million over the next five years.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, whether the Government plans to extend the improved settlement terms announced following the McCann Review to individuals who have already settled their Loan Charge liabilities with HMRC.

Answered by Dan Tomlinson - Exchequer Secretary (HM Treasury)

The Government commissioned an independent review of the loan charge to bring the matter to a close for those affected, ensure fairness for all taxpayers and ensure that appropriate support is in place for those subject to the loan charge.

The Government accepted the review’s conclusion that the loan charge was an extraordinary piece of Government policy which necessitated an exceptional response, and is now legislating a new settlement opportunity that will assist those who have not yet settled to do so.

As a result, most individuals could see reductions of at least 50% in their outstanding loan charge liabilities, and an estimated 30% of individuals could have these liabilities written off entirely. To encourage more people to settle, the Government will write off the first £5,000 of liabilities in addition to the proposals put forward by Ray McCann.

The Government’s response to the review represents a fair and proportionate attempt to provide a route to resolution for those who have not yet been able to settle with HMRC. In turn, this requires those individuals to now come forward and engage with HMRC in good faith.

Tax avoidance deprives the Exchequer of funds needed to deliver vital public services and it is right that resources are targeted to stop this. There are no plans to apply the review’s recommendations beyond those individuals and employers with outstanding liabilities that were the focus of the review.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, how many people she expects to settle their disguised remuneration liabilities as a result of the McCann Review into Loan Charge settlement terms.

Answered by Dan Tomlinson - Exchequer Secretary (HM Treasury)

The Government commissioned an independent review of the loan charge to bring the matter to a close for those affected, ensure fairness for all taxpayers and ensure that appropriate support is in place for those subject to the loan charge.

The Government accepted the review’s conclusion that the loan charge was an extraordinary piece of Government policy which necessitated an exceptional response, and is now legislating a new settlement opportunity that will assist those who have not yet settled to do so.

As a result, most individuals could see reductions of at least 50% in their outstanding loan charge liabilities, and an estimated 30% of individuals could have these liabilities written off entirely. To encourage more people to settle, the Government will write off the first £5,000 of liabilities in addition to the proposals put forward by Ray McCann.

The Government’s response to the review represents a fair and proportionate attempt to provide a route to resolution for those who have not yet been able to settle with HMRC. In turn, this requires those individuals to now come forward and engage with HMRC in good faith.

Tax avoidance deprives the Exchequer of funds needed to deliver vital public services and it is right that resources are targeted to stop this. There are no plans to apply the review’s recommendations beyond those individuals and employers with outstanding liabilities that were the focus of the review.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what assessment she has made of the potential impact of changes to electric Vehicle Excise Duty on the use of internal combustion engine vehicles.

Answered by Dan Tomlinson - Exchequer Secretary (HM Treasury)

As announced at Budget 2025, the Government is introducing Electric Vehicle Excise Duty (eVED) from April 2028, a new mileage charge for electric and plug-in hybrid cars, recognising that electric vehicles (EVs) contribute to congestion and wear and tear on the roads but pay no equivalent to fuel duty.

The Government is also committed to ensuring that driving an electric vehicle is an attractive choice for consumers; the eVED rate paid by electric car drivers will therefore be half the equivalent fuel duty rate paid by the average petrol/diesel driver, meaning that it will still be cheaper to own and run an EV for the majority of EV drivers, with a reduced rate for plug-in hybrid drivers.

The Government has set out the expected impacts of eVED and other Budget measures, including Exchequer and behavioural impacts, in the Budget 2025 Policy Costings document at GOV.UK.

There are uncertainties, but the number of internal combustion engine cars is still expected to fall over time as electric car sales increase; EV sales are forecast to more than triple from nearly 0.5 million sales in 2025/26 to around 1.6 million by 2030/31.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, with reference to the business rate information letter entitled 1/2026: Pubs and live music venues relief 2026 to 2027, of 27 January 2026, what the cost is of the new relief in (a) 2026-27, (b) 2027-28 and (c) 2028-29.

Answered by Dan Tomlinson - Exchequer Secretary (HM Treasury)

From April, every pub and live music venue will get 15% off its new business rates bill on top of the support announced at Budget and then bills will be frozen in real terms for a further two years.

Final costings will be confirmed at a fiscal event in the usual way.

The retail and hospitality sectors will continue to benefit from the £4.3 billion support package announced at Budget. This support package means most properties seeing increases will see them capped at 15% or less next year, or £800 for the smallest.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, whether alternative reporting frequencies were considered under Making Tax Digital for self-employed workers whose income is irregular or seasonal.

Answered by Dan Tomlinson - Exchequer Secretary (HM Treasury)

The government has worked extensively with taxpayers, representative bodies and software developers to ensure Making Tax Digital (MTD) for Income Tax works well for businesses of all types and sizes.

For most users, MTD for Income Tax will involve keeping digital records and submitting four light-touch quarterly updates during the tax year.

MTD quarterly updates are not tax returns. They are simple summaries of business income and expenses and are populated automatically through software that draws the relevant data from digital records.

Quarterly updates allow taxpayers with irregular or seasonal income to see an emerging view of their likely tax position as the year progresses, supporting better business planning. The updates can also enable HMRC to deliver targeted digital prompts to users throughout the tax year, ensuring reporting is accurate and timely by pointing out errors or missing entries.

With accurate records captured digitally in software, preparing the end-of-year return should be simpler, as the information needed is already available.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what assessment has been made of the impact of Making Tax Digital for Income Tax on workers in the creative industries and gig economy.

Answered by Dan Tomlinson - Exchequer Secretary (HM Treasury)

The government has worked extensively with taxpayers, representative bodies and software developers to ensure Making Tax Digital (MTD) for Income Tax works well for businesses of all types and sizes.

For most users, MTD for Income Tax will involve keeping digital records and submitting four light-touch quarterly updates during the tax year.

MTD quarterly updates are not tax returns. They are simple summaries of business income and expenses and are populated automatically through software that draws the relevant data from digital records.

Quarterly updates allow taxpayers with irregular or seasonal income to see an emerging view of their likely tax position as the year progresses, supporting better business planning. The updates can also enable HMRC to deliver targeted digital prompts to users throughout the tax year, ensuring reporting is accurate and timely by pointing out errors or missing entries.

With accurate records captured digitally in software, preparing the end-of-year return should be simpler, as the information needed is already available.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what steps she is taking to help improve the efficiency of His Majesties Revenue and Customs' operations.

Answered by Dan Tomlinson - Exchequer Secretary (HM Treasury)

As published in the Spending Review 2025 Departmental Efficiency Plans, HM Revenue and Customs will be delivering significant efficiencies of £886m per year by 2028-29 in five areas:

• moving to digital services – HMRC will use digital services as its main form of customer communication and the primary method of interaction. These services are more convenient, more productive, and more cost-effective;
• improving and modernising the IT estate – HMRC will replace its legacy IT infrastructure with modern platforms and services. Moving to modern IT platforms reduces risk, enables decommissioning of costly systems, and provides more productive digital tools for staff and customers;
• continuous improvement and productivity – HMRC has a strong track record of continuous improvement activity. Improvements in training, guidance and retention have also enabled HMRC to deliver productivity benefits;
• restructuring the physical estate – HMRC will consolidate its offices into modern regional centres, exit some sites and streamline its facilities contracts; and
• upstream compliance – HMRC aims to prevent non-compliance from happening proactively, rather than reacting when it has occurred. This prevents costly compliance and litigation, as well as closing the tax gap.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, further to the business rate information letter, 1/2026: Pubs and live music venues relief 2026 to 2027, whether the new relief is subject to a state aid cap for chain pubs; and whether it will apply to venues subject to the high value multiplier.

Answered by Dan Tomlinson - Exchequer Secretary (HM Treasury)

From April, every pub and live music venue will get 15% off its new business rates bill on top of the support announced at Budget and then bills will be frozen in real terms for a further two years.

Final costings will be confirmed at a fiscal event in the usual way.

The retail and hospitality sectors will continue to benefit from the £4.3 billion support package announced at Budget. This support package means most properties seeing increases will see them capped at 15% or less next year, or £800 for the smallest.

Found: devolved. 4 To devolve the fund and allocate it via the Barnett formula, following the change HMT

Found: Main Estimates are presented to Parliament by HM Treasury in order to seek Parliament’s authority for

Found: We are planning 1% efficiency savings in 2025-26 and 2026-27 as agreed with HM Treasury.

Found: HM Treasury (the Treasury), which sponsors NS&I, was too slow to realise there was an issue and to act

Found: Budgets will be monitored throughout the year to identify spending pressures, in line with the HM Treasury

Found: £2.5m Resource DEL decrease in depreciation • Following the depreciation exercise conducted by HM Treasury

Found: Main Estimates are presented to Parliament by HM Treasury in order to seek Parliament’s authority for

Found: and a longer term lease on the office in Cardiff. 3 1.6 Reserve claims and spending pressures HM Treasury

Found: Whilst I understand that deliberations have been lengthy and ongoing with HM Treasury, I am very disappointed

Found: NAO, Lee Summerfield, Director, NAO, and Edward Pinney, Alternate Treasury Officer of Accounts, HM Treasury

Found: Edward Pinney, Alternate Treasury Officer of Accounts, HM Treasury, was in attendance.

Found: Greater direct engagement with departments such as HM Treasury, the Home Office, DEFRA, and the Department

Found: However, unfortunately HM Treasury does not seem to be actively involved with the FCA’s work on this

Found: Investing in nature protection for 30x30 20 Source: HMT, June 2025: “ The ODA settlement prioritises

Found: the Cayman Islands Ministry of Finance and Economic Development and counterparts in HM Treasury

Found: D6:D7)=SUM(E6:E7)=SUM(F6:F7)Additional, new, money awarded since SR 2025:Reserve Claims / Additional HMT

Found: Approval This memorandum has been prepared according to the requirements and guidance set out by HM Treasury

Found: This memorandum has been prepared in accordance with the requirements and guidance issued by HM Treasury

Found: the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) from the Consolidated Fund managed by HM Treasury

Found: Owner: HM Treasury (HMT), the Department for Business and Trade (DBT) and the Financial Conduct Authority

Found: the Final Investment Decision (FID) for Sizewell C, additional funding of £1,285m was required which HMT

Found: We have set out that HMT and the FCA should address any areas of duplication and overlap in payments

Found: to be aligned with the fiscal environment to deliver growth including urgently bringing forward the HMT

Found: to be aligned with the fiscal environment to deliver growth including urgently bringing forward the HMT

Found: HM Treasury has indicated that, “We will reform the Growth Duty so that the legal framework is clearer

Found: This includes reform of the 1974 Consumer Credit Act (CCA) (on which HM Treasury (HMT) is shortly to

Found: UK maintains its reputation for the highest standards of corporate governance. 1 ACCA response to HMT

Found: regulatory reforms are prioritising consultation with business and are being run by a combination of HM Treasury

Found: More recently we have been working collaboratively with HM Treasury and DBT on their initiatives to

Found: The project was funded by HMT from the Shared Outcomes Fund and involved HSE working with a number of

Found: The EA follows HM Treasury Managing Public Money rules which designates some charges, or ‘fees’, as

Found: of Medical Sciences (2011) A new pathway for the regulation and governance of health research 2 HM Treasury

Found: 29.HM Treasury has clear rules for recovering the full cost of relevant chargeable regulatory activity

Found: this should be of critical concern to other departments of the UK Government and primarily to HM Treasury

Found: HMT is an observing member. 10.5.

Found: regulatory services to enable us to improve services and keep in step with demand;  Work directly with HMT

Found: We recently agreed even more ambitious targets with HM Treasury, which we will start reporting on from

Found: case, we would expect any new funding to come from the Ofgem licence fee – with approval from HM Treasury

Found: Ireland Executive budget risks working with the Northern Ireland Executive and HMT

Found: • A budget exchange agreed by HM Treasury for £175.0 million relating to McCloud Injury to Feeling

Found: • £31.0m pensions settlement payment to HMT through a budget “surrender” mechanism.

Found: Changes below have been agreed with HMT.

Found: impact as a regulator. 1.8 Funding: Spending Review and Budgets ORR received no funding from HM Treasury

Found: cohort that there was going to be a tremendous underspend within Year 1 that was being returned to HM Treasury

Found: Capacity Plan alongside the statutory instruments, drawing on DWP Annual Report & Accounts and HM Treasury

Found: (Recommendation 8, Paragraph 48) The FCDO must make formal representation to HM Treasury that any unspent

Found: (Recommendation 8, Paragraph 48) The FCDO must make formal representation to HM Treasury that any unspent

Found: scrutiny of Government policy affecting small businesses over the course of the Parliament. 1 HM Treasury

Found: The error, which emerged after HM Treasury had sent the document to press, relates to a contingent liability

Found: website. 3.2 Measures of performance against each priority GLD’s performance measures, agreed with HM Treasury

Found: % £ m % Administration 497.9 26.9 5.7% 58.9 12.5% The figures in the table above are from HM Treasury

Found: UKEF continues to operate on a net zero cost to the taxpayer basis and as agreed with HM Treasury, it

Found: . ● DHSC, NHS England and HM Treasury: make benefits realisation and post- occupancy evaluation (6, 12

Found: This figure is also inclusive of initial funding provided by HM Treasury’s (HMT) Reserve for the net

Found: The Department’s RAME expenditure is demand led and is largely driven by HMT discount rates, which are

Found: planning and in-year monitoring ensures that the FSA continues to operate within budget limits set by HMT

Found: full revaluation of freehold assets has moved from every 2 years to every 5 years, in line with HM Treasury

Found: Housing, Communities and Local Government, Lucy Rigby KC MP, Economic Secretary to the Treasury, HM Treasury

Found: Woodrow (RIP0023) 58 Letter from the Chief Executive of the Office of Rail and Road to David Lunn, HM Treasury

Found: An updated framework document has been agreed with HM Treasury, reinforcing compliance with Managing

Found: McDougall, Director, National Audit Office, and David Fairbrother, Treasury Officer of Accounts, HM Treasury

Found: VfM Audit (Health), National Audit Office, and David Fairbrother, Treasury Officer of Accounts, HM Treasury

Found: Government, Delivering a decade of renewal for social and affordable housing, July 2025, p.2; HM Treasury

Found: Value for money study: governance and budgeting arrangements for mega projects, June 2025 12 HM Treasury

Question to the Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, pursuant to the Answer of 3 February 2026 to Question 109187 and Question 109186 on Religious Buildings: Wales, what additional funding was agreed with the Treasury to support the Places of Worship Renewal Fund; and what amount of proportional funding was made available to the Welsh Government.

Answered by Ian Murray - Minister of State (Department for Science, Innovation and Technology)

At the Spending Review 2025, HM Treasury agreed budgets for Departments for a three-year period for Resource DEL, and a four-year period for Capital DEL. The Department then completed a Business Planning process to allocate this funding to programmes. This included £92 million (£23 million per year) for the Places of Worship Renewal Fund.

At Spending Reviews, the Devolved Governments generally receive Barnett consequentials as a proportion of overall departmental settlements, not specific funding lines or programmes. Decisions on the allocation of this funding are then for the Devolved Governments to take. We are not therefore able to provide Barnett numbers relating to specific policy measures.

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, pursuant to the Answer of 22 January 2026 to Question 105302 on Dartford-Thurrock Crossing: Privatisation, what steps she is taking to mitigate for the loss of revenue to her Department from the privatisation of the Dartford-Thurrock Crossing.

Answered by Simon Lightwood - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport)

Under the Regulated Asset Base (RAB) model, ownership and operation of the Dartford Crossing would transfer to a new regulated private sector entity. This entity would be responsible for operating and maintaining both the Dartford Crossing and the new Lower Thames Crossing, ensuring a consistent and reliable service across both.

The entity would be overseen by an independent regulator to ensure it performs effectively and protects the interests of users. Charges collected from both the Dartford Crossing and the new Lower Thames Crossing would be received by the entity and used to maintain the crossings and support more reliable journeys.

This approach is designed to bring in private capital to fund the majority of construction, delivering better value for taxpayers and reducing pressure on public budgets. The Department has incorporated the effects of this approach into its financial forecasts and funding settlements with HM Treasury.

Question to the Department for Work and Pensions:

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, what assessment his Department has made of the effectiveness of the Motability Scheme in providing access to wheelchair accessible vehicles for disabled people.

Answered by Stephen Timms - Minister of State (Department for Work and Pensions)

Changes to the Motability Scheme were announced as part of the Autumn Budget. An Equality Impact Assessment including consideration of the impact on affected individuals was undertaken and published by HMT as part of the Autumn Budget and can be found here: Motability Scheme: reforming tax reliefs - GOV.UK.

Vehicles substantially designed for, or adapted for, wheelchair or stretcher users will continue to benefit from VAT reliefs on advance payments and the Insurance Premium Tax exemption, in recognition of the additional costs associated with these vehicles. Moreover, Motability Foundation - an independent charitable organisation with oversight of the Motability Scheme - and Motability Operations - an independent commercial company which delivers the Scheme - will continue to ensure the provision of Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles, while continuing to cover the cost of standard adaptations (such as pedal extensions and steering aids). For customers who cannot afford essential costs or need more complex adaptations, the Motability Foundation will continue to provide means-tested grants to those most in need of financial help.

Question to the Home Office:

To ask His Majesty's Government what support is in place to help recover the credit score of victims of domestic abuse when their credit score has been impacted by an abusive partner.

Answered by Lord Hanson of Flint - Minister of State (Home Office)

This Government recognises the devastating impact economic abuse can have on victims, even long after a relationship ends. ‘Freedom from Violence and Abuse: a cross-government strategy to build a safer society for women and girls’, published on 18 December 2025, outlined a package of commitments to tackle economic abuse.

This included a commitment from His Majesty’s Treasury (HMT) to work with Credit Reference Agencies, lenders and the third sector to improve the way coerced debt is reflected on victim-survivors’ credit files with the aim of making it easier for them to access financial products in the future. This commitment was also included in HMT’s recent Financial Inclusion Strategy which considered economic abuse as a key theme, in recognition of the particular challenges victim-survivors can face in accessing financial products and services.

Question to the Cabinet Office:

To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, pursuant to the Answer of 5 January 2026 to Question 92580 if he will list the 39 business cases that were approved.

Answered by Nick Thomas-Symonds - Paymaster General and Minister for the Cabinet Office

Due to commercial sensitivities, business case titles not covered by the Government Major Projects Portfolio (GMPP) are not published.

All projects and programmes on the GMPP must publish a Summary, Full, or Programme Business Case on GOV.UK within four months of receiving HM Treasury approval. A copy must also be deposited in the House of Commons Library.

Question to the Department for Business and Trade:

To ask the Secretary of State for Business and Trade, whether his Department has made an assessment of the potential impact of Network Rail’s approach to the proposed redevelopment of London Liverpool Street Station on inward foreign direct investment.

Answered by Blair McDougall - Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Business and Trade)

The Office for Investment, a joint unit across DBT, HMT & No.10, promotes the UK as one of the world’s leading destinations for Foreign Direct Investment, supported by our strong business environment, highly skilled workforce and globally competitive sectors. FDI plays an important role in driving growth, innovation and jobs across the country. The OfI has not made a formal assessment of the potential impact of Network Rail’s approach to the proposed redevelopment of London Liverpool Street Station on inward foreign direct investment.

Found: Subject to final agreement with HM Treasury, MHCLG expects the NHDF to comprise £5 billion of grant

Found: Subject to final agreement with HM Treasury, MHCLG expects the NHDF to comprise £5 billion of grant

Found: DWP’s data in nominal terms and adjusted these using the GDP deflators for 2024-25 published by HM Treasury

Found: A discount rate of 1.5% is applied based on HMT Green Book guidance for health impacts.

Found: A discount rate of 1.5% is applied based on HMT Green Book guidance for health impacts.

Found: A discount rate of 1.5% is applied based on HMT Green Book guidance for health impacts.

Found: As outlined in the 10 Year Infrastructure Strategy by HM Treasury (HMT), we are committed to unlocking

Found: SENSITIVE’ sensitivity label for the most sensitive categories of Budget and forecast information where HMT

Found: , saying that the UK Department of Health and Social Care would need to lead negotiations with HM Treasury

Found: cost-recovery, there are no policy options to meaningfully consult on and scrutiny is already provided by HM Treasury

Found: Budgets will be monitored throughout the year to identify spending pressures, in line with the HM Treasury

Found: Customs (HMRC) for the Integrated Security Fund -0.06 -0.06 (Section H) Transfer in funding to the HM Treasury

Found: Opposing Forms GAC Cabinet Office (CO) GAC 11750/11 Dame Barbara Hepworth Three Forms; Opposing Forms HMT

Found: HMT GAC 2803 Dame Laura Knight Sowing Potatoes on a Windy Day HMT GAC 2291 Margaret Thomas Autumn HMT

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