VAT cut could boost Green Deal ?

By 2020, it is estimated there could be more than 100,000 extra UK jobs if VAT is reduced to 5% for all domestic repair, maintenance and improvement (RMI) works. This is according to figures from the Federation of Master Builders.

FMB director of external affairs, Brian Berry, says: “At a time when unemployment, especially among young people, is rising by cutting VAT on RMI works would help create more than 60,000 jobs over the next 12 months.”

A VAT cut for home improvements would increase demand in the sector and help create more apprenticeship opportunities for young people. It would also benefit millions of UK homeowners by reducing bills for those who find it difficult to afford vital energy efficiency improvements to their homes. And amongst other things it would be a great help to protect consumers from inexperienced and illegal workers!

Berry says: “One of the biggest benefits to come from cutting VAT would be the big boost it would give to the Government’s own Green Deal flagship!”

More information: www.fmb.org.uk