Listed Historic Buildings
Debate between Lord Mackinlay of Richborough and Baroness Twycross
Baroness Twycross (Lab)
That is a very interesting question. It is not one that I have the answer to, but I will write to the noble Lord to ensure that that information is available and place a copy of the letter in the Library.
Lord Mackinlay of Richborough (Con)
My Lords, I refer the House to my interests in the register. I was also the chairman of the All-Party Group on Listed Properties for many years, a body that I wish to get back up and running again, I hope with support in this House. I also live in a listed property. I share the right reverend Prelate’s concerns in relation to the Listed Places of Worship Grant Scheme and the concerns about VAT. For many years up to 2012, a lower rate or a zero rate of VAT applied for properly approved listed property works. That was removed by a Conservative Government, but that does not mean that it was the right thing to do. In the face of the high cost for listed property owners of specialist builders and specialist materials, getting planning consent can add dramatically to the cost. There is also the issue of insurance premium tax. Listed property owners face far in excess of the usual increases in insurance because the market is restricted. It is not fair that the Treasury is enriched through insurance premium tax on top of that. Could that be looked at please?
Baroness Twycross (Lab)
I hear the noble Lord’s concerns. From a government perspective, we would be very keen to understand how this would be funded, given the overall economic situation we find ourselves in. If he has any suggestions on that point, I would be very happy to hear them.