Written question asked by David Porter (Conservative), in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Friday, 24 January 1997. It was answered by Phillip Oppenheim (Conservative) on Friday, 24 January 1997 on behalf of the Treasury.

Treasury

Question: What estimate he has made of the increase in the costs of (a) housing, (b) travel, (c) books and newspapers, (d) children's clothes and (e) food after 2005 when the definitive system of VAT is introduced in the EU. - No figs given. (Holding answer 21 January 1997).

Answer: Mr. Porter: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what estimate he has made of the increase in the costs of (a) housing, (b) travel, (c) books and newspapers, (d) children's clothes and (e) food after 2005 when the definitive system of VAT is introduced in the EU; and if he will make a statement. [11103] Mr. Oppenheim: [holding answer 21 January 1997]: No such estimate has been made. No agreement has been reached to introduce a definitive system of VAT in the European Community from 2005 or any other future date.

Secondary information