Cost of PPE to rise by a fifth as VAT suspension ends
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A LOCAL MSP has hit out over the UK Government’s ending of VAT suspension for personal protective equipment (PPE).
SNP MSP for Moray Richard Lochhead described the decision to allow the temporary suspension of VAT on PPE to expire as "shocking".
VAT on PPE was cut to zero per cent in May following a campaign from trade union groups and opposition parties, with the cut applying to items such as face masks and aprons.
It was initially due to return to 20 per cent in August, but was extended until October 31.
The Tories’ planned changes mean that businesses, charities and individuals in Moray will now be slapped with extra charges when purchasing essential PPE to protect against the Covid-19.
Mr Lochhead said: "The UK Government’s decision to slap extra charges on the cost of essential PPE in the middle of a global pandemic is absolutely shocking.
"Right now, cases are rising across the UK and the safety of our key workers and care providers in Moray is more important than ever.
"Many local businesses are struggling just to get by, and our care sector is already stretched as they deal with the Covid-19 crisis. The last thing anyone needs right now is to be penalised for protecting themselves or their staff.
"Boris Johnson must reverse this decision before these changes come into effect at the end of this week."
Increasing the cost of gloves, masks, aprons and other PPE by a fifth will hit the NHS and care homes in particular.
The measure, introduced amid a shortage of PPE, has cost the Treasury around £255 million.
