VAT AND STATIC CARAVANS

That this House notes with concernthe proposals to make static caravans subject to the standard rate of VAT; recognises that thecaravan industry has already been severely hit by the recession, suffering more than 1,500job losses in 2008; further notes that this measure will put further pressure on the industry; further notes the impact that this measure could have on caravan parks and their surroundingbusinesses; commends the vital role played by caravanning in the tourism industry notably in rural and coastal communities; and calls on the Government to reconsider this measure.