Cutting VAT vital in battle against rogue builders - Teather

12.00.00am GMT Mon 30th Jan 2006

Sarah Teather MP visiting a construction site

Commenting on the launch of the new Trustmark scheme to combat rogue builders, Liberal Democrat Housing Spokesperson, Sarah Teather MP, said "While Trustmark is to be welcomed, if the Government really wants to tackle rogue builders, they need to cut VAT on home repairs.

"It's easy for a cowboy builder to undercut a reputable one because, by dealing in cash, they can evade 17.5% VAT.

"If the Government cut VAT on repairs, there would be much less of a temptation to use unscrupulous tradesmen, and good builders wouldn't be penalised for obeying the law.

"VAT reform will be vital in the battle against rogue builders."