Caravan tax petition deadline extended

MPs have overcome the first hurdle in their bid to overturn the government’s proposal to introduce 20 per cent VAT on the sale of static caravans from October this year, after winning an extension on a petition opposing the change.

Seven MPs from Hull are leading the charge after launching an electronic petition that has attracted thousands of signatures so far. This week, the group won the right to increase the time during which it can attract further support before it is considered by the House of Commons on Friday 25th May.

Constituents from other parties that have a strong caravan industry have joined the Hull MPs’ campaign, with 40 members of parliament already lending their names to the petition. However, Beverley and Holderness MP Graham Stuart is urging caravanners across the country to continue lobbying their government representatives.

“What we need is for constituents across the country to start lobbying their MPs by signing the petition,” Stuart remarked to the Hull Daily Mail. “MPs listen to their constituents. Their letters are always at the top of my in-tray and if people can be mobilised to sign the petition that will make their representatives sit up and listen.”

Many individuals and organisations are concerned that the government’s new ‘caravan tax’ could harm British manufacturing if it is successfully introduced. It could also discourage people from holidaying in the UK – a decision that has potentially devastating consequences to parts of the country that rely heavily on tourism as a source of income.

It is estimated that 7,000 people will lose their jobs if VAT is increased on the sale of static and some larger touring caravans. East Yorkshire is one of the regions that could be hardest hit by the changing legislation.

Click here to sign the electronic petition.

Although the petition extension is a positive signal for campaigners, Coast is urging people to purchase a new caravan sooner rather than later to make sure they beat the VAT rise. We can offer you a competitive quote on your static caravan insurance or touring caravan insurance – all you need to do is give our sales team a call on Freephone 0800 614 849.

Those interested in touring caravan insurance can also click here for an instant quotation.