Written question asked by Baroness Shephard of Northwold (Conservative) on Wednesday, 18 October 2000, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 26 October 2000. It was answered by Stephen Timms (Labour) on Thursday, 26 October 2000 on behalf of the Treasury.

Treasury

Question: To ask Mr Chancellor of the Exchequer, by how much the cost of central heating fuel has risen due to (a) the increase in the price of crude oil and (b) increases in taxation, since 1st April 1998. - Inc figures and ref to "Energy Trends, March 1999" copy in Library.

Answer: Mrs. Shephard: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer by how much the cost of central heating fuel has risen due to (a) the increase in the price of crude oil and (b) increases in taxation, since 1 April 1998. [134292] Mr. Timms: The information requested is contained in the Department of Trade and Industry's monthly statistical bulletin, "Energy Trends, March 1999". A copy of which is available in the House of Commons Library. The rise in taxation was preceded in September 1997 by the Government's reduction in the rate of VAT on fuel and power used domestically, cutting the rate of VAT from 8 per cent. to 5 per cent., the lowest level allowed under European Community law.

Secondary information