Oral Answers to Questions

Kevin Brennan Excerpts

Wednesday 27th April 2011 Commons Chamber

[Mr Hurd]

The national citizen service provides a fantastic opportunity for young people from different backgrounds to work together to make a positive difference to their communities. I am delighted that we are offering 11,000 places this summer in many locations throughout the country. I am also delighted that that scheme is coming to Lincoln, and that my hon. Friend is taking such an active interest in such positive opportunities for young people in his constituency.

[Kevin Brennan (Cardiff West) (Lab)]

T8. What estimate have Ministers made of the cost of the VAT increase to charities?

[Mr Hurd]

VAT issues are obviously a matter for the Treasury, and I would refer that question to Treasury Ministers. As the hon. Gentleman knows—he is a former Minister—that is a long-standing issue for the sector. He will also be aware of a number of initiatives to look at how we can make the VAT regime more helpful.

--- Later in debate ---

[Kevin Brennan (Cardiff West) (Lab)]

Q2. Is the Health Secretary’s job still guaranteed? He is over there, by the way.

[The Prime Minister]

The Health Secretary does an excellent job. Let me draw a little contrast—[Interruption.]