VAT ON TAMAR BRIDGE TOLLS

Early day motion 986, tabled 18 July 2000 by Colin Breed (Liberal Democrat). Signed by 17 members.

That this House notes the advice of Advocate General Siegbert Alber that VAT should be levied on bridge tolls within the United Kingdom; regrets the possible implications of this advice for charges on the Tamar Bridge; is particularly concerned about the implications of extra charges for residents of Devon and Cornwall who use the Tamar Bridge as an essential link between the two counties; believes that the imposition of VAT on Tamar tolls would have a damaging impact on business, particularly in the Objective One area of Cornwall, and individuals as there is currently no genuine alternative route; and, noting the ability of member state governments to allow exemptions from VAT requirements, urges Her Majesty's Government to recognise that the one-lane 15th century bridge at Gunnislake does not provide a viable alternative route between Devon and Cornwall and that, therefore, the Tamar Bridge should be exempted from VAT.

Signatures by party: Liberal Democrat 11, Labour 6.