VAT On Zoos

EDM number 689 in 1995-96, proposed by Ken Livingstone on 28/03/1996.

That this House applauds the fact that British zoos have become world leaders in the vital work of conservation of endangered animal species and is deeply concerned that HM Customs and Excise have notified Belfast, Bristol, Chester, Edinburgh, London, Marwell, Paignton and Twycross zoos of the Government's intention to extend VAT to cover zoo admission charges as from 1st May; points out that such an increase is bound to reduce visitor numbers and as a consequence reduce the long-term conservation work carried out by these zoos; points out that the sixth EC VAT Directive, under which HM Customs and Excise are proceeding, allows governments the discretion to exempt zoos from VAT; calls on the Government to exercise this discretion; and, in the event that the Government chooses to proceed with the imposition of VAT, demands that, given the large number of constituencies affected, this matter should be voted on only after a full debate and not slipped through late at night via the SI procedure.

This motion has been signed by a total of 36 MPs.