HM Treasury

HM Treasury is the government’s economic and finance ministry, maintaining control over public spending, setting the direction of the UK’s economic policy and working to achieve strong and sustainable economic growth.



Secretary of State

 Portrait

Rachel Reeves
Chancellor of the Exchequer

Shadow Ministers / Spokeperson
Liberal Democrat
Baroness Kramer (LD - Life peer)
Liberal Democrat Lords Spokesperson (Treasury and Economy)
Daisy Cooper (LD - St Albans)
Liberal Democrat Spokesperson (Treasury)

Conservative
Mel Stride (Con - Central Devon)
Shadow Chancellor of the Exchequer

Green Party
Adrian Ramsay (Green - Waveney Valley)
Green Spokesperson (Treasury)

Liberal Democrat
Charlie Maynard (LD - Witney)
Liberal Democrat Spokesperson (Chief Secretary to the Treasury)
Junior Shadow Ministers / Deputy Spokesperson
Conservative
Lord Altrincham (Con - Excepted Hereditary)
Shadow Minister (Treasury)
Richard Fuller (Con - North Bedfordshire)
Shadow Chief Secretary to the Treasury
Gareth Davies (Con - Grantham and Bourne)
Shadow Financial Secretary (Treasury)
Baroness Neville-Rolfe (Con - Life peer)
Shadow Minister (Treasury)
Junior Shadow Ministers / Deputy Spokesperson
Conservative
James Wild (Con - North West Norfolk)
Shadow Exchequer Secretary (Treasury)
Mark Garnier (Con - Wyre Forest)
Shadow Economic Secretary (Treasury)
Ministers of State
Lord Livermore (Lab - Life peer)
Financial Secretary (HM Treasury)
James Murray (LAB - Ealing North)
Chief Secretary to the Treasury
Lord Stockwood (Lab - Life peer)
Minister of State (HM Treasury)
Parliamentary Under-Secretaries of State
Torsten Bell (Lab - Swansea West)
Parliamentary Secretary (HM Treasury)
Dan Tomlinson (Lab - Chipping Barnet)
Exchequer Secretary (HM Treasury)
Lucy Rigby (Lab - Northampton North)
Economic Secretary (HM Treasury)
There are no upcoming events identified
Debates
Thursday 27th November 2025
Select Committee Inquiry
Tuesday 31st January 2023
Quantitative tightening

This inquiry will examine quantitative tightening, including its impact on the economy and its fiscal costs. It will also investigate …

Written Answers
Monday 1st December 2025
Spirits: Excise Duties
To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, whether her Department has made an assessment of the potential impact of spirits …
Secondary Legislation
Wednesday 19th November 2025
Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (Regulated Activities) (Amendment) Order 2025
This Order amends the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (Regulated Activities) Order 2001 (S.I. 2001/544) (“the Regulated Activities Order”). …
Bills
Wednesday 26th November 2025
14:36
Finance (No. 2) Bill 2024-26
This Bill will be published after the House’s decisions on the Budget Resolutions.
Dept. Publications
Monday 1st December 2025
17:17

HM Treasury Commons Appearances

Oral Answers to Questions is a regularly scheduled appearance where the Secretary of State and junior minister will answer at the Dispatch Box questions from backbench MPs

Other Commons Chamber appearances can be:
  • Urgent Questions where the Speaker has selected a question to which a Minister must reply that day
  • Adjornment Debates a 30 minute debate attended by a Minister that concludes the day in Parliament.
  • Oral Statements informing the Commons of a significant development, where backbench MP's can then question the Minister making the statement.

Westminster Hall debates are performed in response to backbench MPs or e-petitions asking for a Minister to address a detailed issue

Written Statements are made when a current event is not sufficiently significant to require an Oral Statement, but the House is required to be informed.

Most Recent Commons Appearances by Category
Nov. 04
Oral Questions
Nov. 17
Urgent Questions
Nov. 11
Westminster Hall
Oct. 14
Adjournment Debate
View All HM Treasury Commons Contibutions

Bills currently before Parliament

HM Treasury does not have Bills currently before Parliament


Acts of Parliament created in the 2024 Parliament

Introduced: 25th June 2025

A Bill to Authorise the use of resources for the year ending with 31 March 2026; to authorise both the issue of sums out of the Consolidated Fund and the application of income for that year; and to appropriate the supply authorised for that year by this Act and by the Supply and Appropriation (Anticipation and Adjustments) Act 2025.

This Bill received Royal Assent on 21st July 2025 and was enacted into law.

Introduced: 13th November 2024

A Bill to make provision about secondary Class 1 contributions.

This Bill received Royal Assent on 3rd April 2025 and was enacted into law.

Introduced: 6th November 2024

A Bill to make provision about finance.

This Bill received Royal Assent on 20th March 2025 and was enacted into law.

Introduced: 25th July 2024

A Bill to amend the Crown Estate Act 1961.

This Bill received Royal Assent on 11th March 2025 and was enacted into law.

Introduced: 5th March 2025

A Bill to Authorise the use of resources for the years ending with 31 March 2024, 31 March 2025 and 31 March 2026; to authorise the issue of sums out of the Consolidated Fund for those years; and to appropriate the supply authorised by this Act for the years ending with 31 March 2024 and 31 March 2025.

This Bill received Royal Assent on 11th March 2025 and was enacted into law.

Introduced: 6th November 2024

A Bill to make provision for loans or other financial assistance to be provided to, or for the benefit of, the government of Ukraine.

This Bill received Royal Assent on 16th January 2025 and was enacted into law.

Introduced: 18th July 2024

A Bill to impose duties on the Treasury and the Office for Budget Responsibility in respect of the announcement of fiscally significant measures.

This Bill received Royal Assent on 10th September 2024 and was enacted into law.

Introduced: 24th July 2024

A Bill to authorise the use of resources for the year ending with 31 March 2025; to authorise both the issue of sums out of the Consolidated Fund and the application of income for that year; and to appropriate the supply authorised for that year by this Act and by the Supply and Appropriation (Anticipation and Adjustments) Act 2024.

This Bill received Royal Assent on 30th July 2024 and was enacted into law.

HM Treasury - Secondary Legislation

This Order amends the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (Regulated Activities) Order 2001 (S.I. 2001/544) (“the Regulated Activities Order”). The Regulated Activities Order specifies certain activities and investments which are to be regulated activities for the purposes of section 22(1) of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (c. 8) (“the Act”). Section 19 of the Act prohibits persons from carrying on any regulated activity in the United Kingdom, unless they are either authorised or exempt.
Regulation 2 amends the Customs Tariff (Establishment) (EU Exit) Regulations 2020 (S.I. 2020/1430) to refer to a revised “Tariff of the United Kingdom” document. This new version of the document increases the import duty rate for the commodity codes 1006 20 19 13 and 1006 20 99 13 (husked basmati rice) from 0% to £25 per 1000kg and corrects a previous error by re-inserting the 14% import duty rate for the heading code 2007 99 93 (jams, fruit jellies, marmalades, fruit or nut purée and fruit or nut pastes).
View All HM Treasury Secondary Legislation

Petitions

e-Petitions are administered by Parliament and allow members of the public to express support for a particular issue.

If an e-petition reaches 10,000 signatures the Government will issue a written response.

If an e-petition reaches 100,000 signatures the petition becomes eligible for a Parliamentary debate (usually Monday 4.30pm in Westminster Hall).

Trending Petitions
Petitions with most signatures
Petition Open
29,667 Signatures
(136 in the last 7 days)
Petition Open
24,705 Signatures
(554 in the last 7 days)
Petition Debates Contributed

Raise the income tax personal allowance from £12570 to £20000. We think this would help low earners to get off benefits and allow pensioners a decent income.

154,007
Petition Closed
13 May 2025
closed 6 months, 2 weeks ago

We think that changing inheritance tax relief for agricultural land will devastate farms nationwide, forcing families to sell land and assets just to stay on their property. We urge the government to keep the current exemptions for working farms.

Prevent independent schools from having to pay VAT on fees and incurring business rates as a result of new legislation.

View All HM Treasury Petitions

Departmental Select Committee

Treasury Committee

Commons Select Committees are a formally established cross-party group of backbench MPs tasked with holding a Government department to account.

At any time there will be number of ongoing investigations into the work of the Department, or issues which fall within the oversight of the Department. Witnesses can be summoned from within the Government and outside to assist in these inquiries.

Select Committee findings are reported to the Commons, printed, and published on the Parliament website. The government then usually has 60 days to reply to the committee's recommendations.


11 Members of the Treasury Committee
Meg Hillier Portrait
Meg Hillier (Labour (Co-op) - Hackney South and Shoreditch)
Treasury Committee Member since 9th September 2024
Yuan Yang Portrait
Yuan Yang (Labour - Earley and Woodley)
Treasury Committee Member since 21st October 2024
Siobhain McDonagh Portrait
Siobhain McDonagh (Labour - Mitcham and Morden)
Treasury Committee Member since 21st October 2024
John Glen Portrait
John Glen (Conservative - Salisbury)
Treasury Committee Member since 21st October 2024
Harriett Baldwin Portrait
Harriett Baldwin (Conservative - West Worcestershire)
Treasury Committee Member since 21st October 2024
Bobby Dean Portrait
Bobby Dean (Liberal Democrat - Carshalton and Wallington)
Treasury Committee Member since 28th October 2024
Chris Coghlan Portrait
Chris Coghlan (Liberal Democrat - Dorking and Horley)
Treasury Committee Member since 28th October 2024
John Grady Portrait
John Grady (Labour - Glasgow East)
Treasury Committee Member since 9th December 2024
Catherine West Portrait
Catherine West (Labour - Hornsey and Friern Barnet)
Treasury Committee Member since 27th October 2025
Luke Murphy Portrait
Luke Murphy (Labour - Basingstoke)
Treasury Committee Member since 27th October 2025
Jim Dickson Portrait
Jim Dickson (Labour - Dartford)
Treasury Committee Member since 27th October 2025
Treasury Committee: Upcoming Events
Treasury Committee - Oral evidence
Budget 2025
2 Dec 2025, 9:45 a.m.
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Treasury Committee - Oral evidence
Budget 2025
3 Dec 2025, 2 p.m.
View calendar - Save to Calendar
Treasury Committee: Previous Inquiries
The Financial Conduct Authority’s Regulation of London Capital & Finance plc Budget 2021 Work of National Savings and Investments Lessons from Greensill Capital Appointment of Carolyn Wilkins to the Financial Policy Committee Appointment of Tanya Castell to the Prudential Regulatory Committee The work of the Prudential Regulation Authority Reappointment of Jill May and Julia Black to the Prudential Regulation Committee Committee on COP26: climate change and finance Spring Budget 2020 Appointment of Sarah Breeden to the Financial Policy Committee Appointment of Catherine Mann to the Monetary Policy Committee Reappointment of Jonathan Haskel to the Monetary Policy Committee Bank of England July Financial Stability Report and August Monetary Policy Report Economic Crime Regional Imbalances in the UK economy The Work of the Debt Management Office Appointment of Richard Hughes as Chair of the Office for Budget Responsibility Reappointment of Professor Silvana Tenreyro to the Monetary Policy Committee Reappointment of Andy Haldane to the Monetary Policy Committee Appointment of Jonathan Hall to the Financial Policy Committee Appointment of Nikhil Rathi as Chief Executive of the Financial Conduct Authority Maxwellisation inquiry The work of National Savings and Investments inquiry Retail Banking Market Review inquiry HMRC Executive Chair and Chief Executive Financial stability one-off hearing Appointment of the CEO of Financial Conduct Authority Bank of England Financial Stability Report Hearings 2016-17 UK's future economic relationship with the EU inquiry Appointment of Deputy Governor for Prudential Regulation EU Insurance Regulation inquiry HM Treasury: Report and Accounts 2015 – 2016 Appointment of Michael Saunders to the Monetary Policy Committee Appointment of Anil Kashyap to the Financial Policy Committee Tax credits, fraud and error inquiry The work of the Chancellor of the Exchequer inquiry Bank of England Inflation Report Hearing August 2016 Prudential Regulation Authority inquiry Sir Charles Bean appointment to Budget Responsibility Committee UK tax policy and the tax base inquiry Government Internal Audit Agency inquiry HM Treasury Annual Report and Accounts 2014-15 inquiry Valuation Office Agency inquiry Independent review of report into failure of HBOS inquiry Review of the Office for National Statistics inquiry Appointment of Angela Knight as Chair of the Office for Tax Simplification Appointment of Tim Parkes as Chair of Regulatory Decisions Committee Budget 2016 inquiry Financial Policy Committee re-appointment hearings Bank of England Inflation Report Hearing May 2016 Work of the Court of the Bank of England inquiry Bank of England Inflation Report Hearing February 2017 Appointment of the Deputy Governor for Markets and Banking Budget 2017 inquiry Restoration and Renewal of the Palace of Westminster inquiry Capital inquiry Work of the Payment Systems Regulator inquiry Effectiveness and impact of post-2008 UK monetary policy Access to basic retail financial services inquiry Financial Conduct Authority inquiry Bank of England Inflation Report Hearing November 2016 UK Financial Investments annual reports and accounts 2015-16 Housing Policy inquiry Autumn Statement 2016 Household finances: income, saving and debt inquiry Bank of England Inflation Reports inquiry Budget Autumn 2017 inquiry Student Loans inquiry The UK's economic relationship with the European Union inquiry The work of the Bank of England inquiry The work of the Financial Conduct Authority The work of the National Infrastructure Commission inquiry Women in finance inquiry Appointment of Professor Silvana Tenreyro to the Monetary Policy Committee Appointment of Sir Dave Ramsden as Deputy Governor for Markets and Banking, Bank of England The work of the Chancellor of the Exchequer EU Insurance Regulation inquiry HMRC Annual Report and Accounts inquiry Re-appointment of Professor Anil Kashyap to the Financial Policy Committee inquiry Re-appointment of Ben Broadbent as Deputy Governor for Monetary Policy, Bank of England inquiry The effectiveness of gender pay gap reporting inquiry Decarbonisation of the UK Economy and Green Finance inquiry Regional Imbalances in the UK Economy inquiry Work of the Financial Services Compensation Scheme inquiry Spending Round 2019 inquiry Access to Cash Review inquiry Appointment of Kathryn Cearns as Chair of the Office of Tax Simplification inquiry The future of the UK’s financial services inquiry The impact of Business Rates on business inquiry Spring Statement 2019 inquiry The work of the Adjudicator’s Office inquiry The work of the Debt Management Office inquiry Independent Review of the Co-Operative Bank inquiry Work of the Court of the Bank of England inquiry Tax enquiries and resolution of tax disputes inquiry IT failures in the financial services sector inquiry Work of the Banking Standards Board inquiry Independent Review of the Financial Ombudsman Service Appointment of Bradley Fried as Chair of Court, Bank of England Appointment of Professor Jonathan Haskel to the Monetary Policy Committee Andy King, Nominated Member of the Budget Responsibility Committee Re-appointment of Dr Gertjan Vlieghe to the Monetary Policy Committee Maxwellisation inquiry Work of the Valuation Office Agency inquiry Appointment of Julia Black as external member of the Prudential Regulation Committee Appointment of Jill May as an external member of the Prudential Regulation Committee Consumers’ Access to Financial Services inquiry The re-appointment of Sir Jon Cunliffe as Deputy Governor for Financial Stability at the Bank of England inquiry Budget 2018 inquiry The Work of the Treasury inquiry Service Disruption at TSB inquiry Economic Crime inquiry Re-appointment of Alex Brazier to the Financial Policy Committee Re-appointment of Donald Kohn to the Financial Policy Committee Re-appointment of Martin Taylor to the Financial Policy Committee VAT inquiry Spring Statement 2018 Digital Currencies inquiry Appointment of Charles Randell as Chair of the Financial Conduct Authority SME Finance inquiry Appointment of Elisabeth Stheeman to the Bank of England Financial Policy Committee The work of the Prudential Regulation Authority inquiry Bank of England Financial Stability Reports RBS's Global Restructuring Group and its treatment of SMEs inquiry Childcare inquiry The work of the Payment Systems Regulator inquiry HM Treasury Annual Report and Accounts inquiry Women in the City Crown Estate Cheques, the end of? Mortgage Arrears and Access to Mortgage Finance: Follow up Financial Institutions - Too Important To Fail? Budget 2010 Credit Searches European Macro and Micro Prudential Financial Regulation Presbyterian Mutual Society Pre-Budget Report 2009 Budget 2009 Pre-Budget Report 2008 Budget 2008 Pre-Budget Report 2007 Mortgage Arrears and Access to Mortgage Finance Evaluating the Efficiency Programme Administration and expenditure of the Chancellor’s Departments, 2008-09 Banking Crisis Banking Crisis: International Dimensions Banking Reform Run on the Rock Budget June 2010 Competition and choice in the banking sector Office for Budget Responsibility Financial Regulation Spending Review 2010 Administration and effectiveness of HMRC The principles of tax policy Retail Distribution Review European financial regulation Autumn forecast 2010 Accountability of the Bank of England Private Finance Initiative Budget 2011 Future of Cheques Independent Commission on Banking: Interim Report Closing the tax gap: HMRC's record at ensuring tax compliance Budget Measures and Low-income Households Financial Conduct Authority Inherited Estates Counting the population Administration and expenditure of the Chancellor's Departments, 2006-07 Comprehensive Spending Review 2007 Administration and expenditure of the Chancellor's Departments, 2007-08 Independent Commission on Banking: Final Report Global Imbalances Autumn Statement 2011 Budget 2012 Corporate governance and remuneration Money Advice Service LIBOR FSA's report into HBOS Spending Round 2013 Project Verde Macroprudential tools Disposal of Government Stakes in RBS and Lloyds Credit Rating Agencies Autumn Statement 2012 Appointment of Dr Mark Carney as Governor of the Bank of England Budget 2013 Quantitative easing Private Finance 2 Autumn Statement 2013 Bank of England Financial Stability Report hearings: Session 2014-15 Appointment hearings, Session 2013-14 Bank of England Inflation Report Hearings: Session 2013-14 EU Financial Regulation Monetary Policy: Forward Guidance UK Financial Investments Ltd 2013 The economics of HS2 SME Lending Financial Conduct Authority hearings The costing of pre-election policy proposals Performance of the Royal Mint Budget 2014 The economics of currency unions OBR: July 2013 Fiscal Sustainability Report Banks' Lending Practices: Treatment of Businesses in Distress RBS Independent Lending Review Prudential Regulation Authority Hearings: Session 2014-15 HM Treasury Annual Report and Accounts 2013-14 Treatment of Financial Services Consumers Bank of England Inflation Report Hearings: Session 2014-15 HMRC Business Plan 2014-16 Manipulation of Benchmarks Appointment hearings, Session 2014-15 Co-op Governance Review Cost effectiveness of economic and financial sanctions Bank of England Financial Stability Report Hearings 2015-16 Bank of England Inflation Report Hearings 2015-16 Summer Budget 2015 inquiry UK Financial Investments Ltd Annual Report and Accounts 14-15 Review of scope and performance of Office for Budget Responsibility Bank of England Bill inquiry Chair of Office for Budget Responsibility reappointment hearing HMRC Annual Report and Accounts 2014-15 inquiry Prudential Regulation Authority inquiry Comprehensive Spending Review and Autumn Statement 2015 inquiry Review of CMA work on Retail Banking Market one-off session Financial Conduct Authority Practitioner Panels one-off session Appointment of Gertjan Vlieghe to the Monetary Policy Committee hearing Reappointment of Ian McCafferty to the Monetary Policy Committee hearing Financial Conduct Authority Economic and financial costs and benefits of UK's EU membership Crown Estate Annual Report and Accounts 2013/14 Bank of England Foreign Exchange Market Investigation HM Revenue and Customs and HSBC Budget 2015 The UK's EU Budget Contributions Press briefing of information in the Financial Conduct Authority’s 2014/15 Business Plan Fair and Effective Markets Review The Payment Systems Regulator Implementing the recommendations on the Parliamentary Commission on Banking Standards Autumn Statement 2014 Work of the Tax Assurance Commissioner UK Financial Investments Ltd Proposals for further Fiscal and Economic Devolution to Scotland Debt Management Office Annual Report and Accounts 2013-14 UK Customs Policy Infrastructure The cost of living The venture capital market The crypto-asset industry Tax Reliefs September 2022 Fiscal Event The Financial Services and Markets Bill The mortgage market The Edinburgh Reforms Quantitative tightening Retail Banks Appointment of Andrew Bailey as Governor of the Bank of England Work of Government Actuary’s Department Work of the Financial Ombudsman Service Work of HM Treasury Future of Financial Services Spending Review 2020 HMRC Annual Report and Accounts Bank of England Financial Stability Reports The appointment of John Taylor to the Prudential Regulation Committee UK’s economic and trading relationship with the EU The appointment of Antony Jenkins to the Prudential Regulation Committee Access to Cash Review Bank of England Financial Stability Reports Bank of England Inflation Reports Consumers’ Access to Financial Services Decarbonisation of the UK Economy and Green Finance Economic Crime The effectiveness of gender pay gap reporting HMRC Annual Report and Accounts inquiry Tax enquiries and resolution of tax disputes IT failures in the financial services sector Appointment of Dame Colette Bowe to the Financial Policy Committee Re-appointment of Professor Anil Kashyap to the Financial Policy Committee Work of the Financial Services Compensation Scheme Spending Round 2019 The impact of Business Rates on business Work of the Court of the Bank of England Independent Review of the Co-Operative Bank Regional Imbalances in the UK Economy Re-appointment of Michael Saunders to the Monetary Policy Committee Re-appointment of Ben Broadbent as Deputy Governor for Monetary Policy, Bank of England Maxwellisation RBS's Global Restructuring Group and its treatment of SMEs SME Finance Spring Statement 2019 The future of the UK’s financial services HM Treasury Annual Report and Accounts Service Disruption at TSB The UK's economic relationship with the European Union VAT The work of the Bank of England The work of the Chancellor of the Exchequer The work of the Financial Conduct Authority The Work of the Treasury The work of the Prudential Regulation Authority

50 most recent Written Questions

(View all written questions)
Written Questions can be tabled by MPs and Lords to request specific information information on the work, policy and activities of a Government Department

26th Nov 2025
To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what was the tax income from (a) domestic (b) commercial energy customer bills for each year from 2015 to date.

VAT is chargeable at the reduced rate of 5% on domestic fuel and power. HMRC publishes estimates of the Exchequer cost of tax reliefs, see https://www.gov.uk/government/statistics/main-tax-expenditures-and-structural-reliefs. The estimated cost of non-structural tax reliefs (December 2024) VAT table shows that the cost estimate for the Reduced Rate of VAT on supplies of domestic fuel and power in 2024-25 was £6,500 million. This represents the cost of the 5% Reduced Rate compared to the Standard Rate of 20%, a relief of 15%. The revenue received at the Reduced Rate may be estimated at 5/15ths of the figure of £6,500 million, or £2,200m (rounded). Figures for previous years are shown in the table.

Business consumers of energy may reclaim VAT on their purchases of energy subject to normal VAT deduction rules.

Climate Change Levy (CCL) is chargeable on the supply of electricity, gas and solid fuels for lighting, heating and power by business operating in the industrial, commercial, agricultural and public services sectors, with certain exclusions. Statistics on CCL receipts from 2014 are published here: Environmental Taxes Bulletin - GOV.UK

This Budget reduces the cost of levies on energy bills to save families £150 on average next year. Combined with the measures on freezing rail fares and freezing fuel duty these policies are forecast to directly cut inflation by over 0.4 percentage points next year, pushing down on mortgage rates and up on growth.

Dan Tomlinson
Exchequer Secretary (HM Treasury)
25th Nov 2025
To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, whether her Department will review the Annual Investment Allowance threshold and take steps to improve the eligibility and uptake of capital allowances among horticultural businesses who are investing in the transition to peat-free growing, water resilience measures, and automation to boost efficiency.

The Annual Investment Allowance allows both incorporated and unincorporated businesses to deduct the entire cost of investment in both main and special rate assets in one go, up to £1 million per year, which covers the investment of 99% of businesses.

In line with the commitments in the 2024 Corporate Tax Roadmap, at Budget the government confirmed it has maintained the parts of the UK Corporate Tax offer that are most important for attracting new investment for the duration of the parliament: the low Corporation Tax main rate of 25%, the generous full expensing offer for plant and machinery and the Annual Investment Allowance.

Dan Tomlinson
Exchequer Secretary (HM Treasury)
25th Nov 2025
To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what assessment she has made of the adequacy of legislation regarding VAT and the NHS following the First-tier Tribunal's ruling in the case of Isle of Wight NHS Trust v HMRC [2025] UKFTT 1114 (TC).

The government is carefully considering the impact of the Isle of Wight decision on the VAT treatment of the supply of temporary medical staff.

HMRC will publish updated guidance in due course.

Dan Tomlinson
Exchequer Secretary (HM Treasury)
17th Nov 2025
To ask His Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of providing child benefits and child care support based on (1) joint household income and (2) parents individual earnings, given that currently a family of two parents earning £50,000 each may be eligible for a different level of support than a family on a single salary of £100,000.

The current rules base the High Income Child Benefit Charge on the income of one parent or carer. Basing the charge on household income, or the individual incomes of both parents or carers, would come at a significant fiscal cost if we were to ensure that no families lose out.

Regarding the 30 hours childcare offer, the £100,000 earnings threshold for eligibility is currently assessed on a per parent basis, rather than household income for two main reasons. First, aligning to the existing boundary in the tax system makes it easy for parents to understand what they are entitled to. Second, this policy approach means there is no incentive for the lower earner in a household to reduce their income, for example through working fewer hours, to be eligible.

Lord Livermore
Financial Secretary (HM Treasury)
25th Nov 2025
To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what assessment her Department has made on the potential impact of a complete spirits duty freeze for the on-trade on revenue.

Alcohol duty is paid at the point of production or import, before it is diverted to either the on-trade or the off-trade. It is therefore not possible to freeze duty rates exclusively for the on-trade.

HMRC’s latest published estimate on the effect of a 1% change in spirits duties on tax receipts can be found here: Direct effects of illustrative tax changes bulletin (June 2025) - GOV.UK.

Dan Tomlinson
Exchequer Secretary (HM Treasury)
25th Nov 2025
To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, whether her Department has made an assessment of the potential impact of spirits duty on the ability of pubs to compete with off-trade retailers.

At Autumn Budget 2025 the Chancellor confirmed that alcohol duty will be uprated on 1 February 2026 to main its current real-terms value. The government does not expect this to have any significant impact to GDP, nor competition between the on and off trades.

Following a detailed review between 2020 and 2023, a new duty system was introduced in August 2023. Information about this review and its outcomes are available here:

www.gov.uk/government/consultations/the-new-alcohol-duty-system-consultation

The Government plans to evaluate the 2023 alcohol duty reforms in late-2026, in line with our commitment to do so three years after they took effect.

Dan Tomlinson
Exchequer Secretary (HM Treasury)
25th Nov 2025
To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what assessment she has made of the contribution of on-trade sale of UK spirits to GDP.

At Autumn Budget 2025 the Chancellor confirmed that alcohol duty will be uprated on 1 February 2026 to main its current real-terms value. The government does not expect this to have any significant impact to GDP, nor competition between the on and off trades.

Following a detailed review between 2020 and 2023, a new duty system was introduced in August 2023. Information about this review and its outcomes are available here:

www.gov.uk/government/consultations/the-new-alcohol-duty-system-consultation

The Government plans to evaluate the 2023 alcohol duty reforms in late-2026, in line with our commitment to do so three years after they took effect.

Dan Tomlinson
Exchequer Secretary (HM Treasury)
25th Nov 2025
To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, if she will conduct a review of the potential impact of spirits duty policy on the on-trade sector.

At Autumn Budget 2025 the Chancellor confirmed that alcohol duty will be uprated on 1 February 2026 to main its current real-terms value. The government does not expect this to have any significant impact to GDP, nor competition between the on and off trades.

Following a detailed review between 2020 and 2023, a new duty system was introduced in August 2023. Information about this review and its outcomes are available here:

www.gov.uk/government/consultations/the-new-alcohol-duty-system-consultation

The Government plans to evaluate the 2023 alcohol duty reforms in late-2026, in line with our commitment to do so three years after they took effect.

Dan Tomlinson
Exchequer Secretary (HM Treasury)
17th Nov 2025
To ask His Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of international policy cooperation on regulating artificial intelligence in financial services; and whether they plan to develop further UK policy in this area.

The government’s ambition is to make the UK a global leader in AI, leveraging our dual strength in financial services and AI to drive growth, productivity, and consumer benefits. Encouraging safe adoption is an essential part of realising that ambition.

International collaboration is vital to ensure that we can collectively unlock AI’s potential. The UK remains committed to working internationally, including through fora such as the Financial Stability Board (FSB), to support the safe adoption of AI in the financial sector.

Lord Livermore
Financial Secretary (HM Treasury)
24th Nov 2025
To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, whether she has made an assessment of the potential impact of continued fuel duty freezes on (a0 supporting economic growth and (b) supply chain stability in the North West.

At Budget 2025, the Government announced continued support for people and businesses by extending the temporary 5p fuel duty cut until the end of August 2026. Rates will then gradually return to previous levels. The planned increase in line with inflation for 2026-27 will not take place, with the government uprating fuel duty rates by RPI from April 2027. This will save the average car driver £49 next year compared to previous plans.

The Government considers the impact of fuel duty on the economy, including households and businesses, with decisions on rates made at fiscal events.

Dan Tomlinson
Exchequer Secretary (HM Treasury)
24th Nov 2025
To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what steps she will take to ensure banks provide access to affordable credit to people who are financially excluded.

The Government recognises that, when provided responsibly, credit can play an important role in helping people manage unexpected expenses and smooth their cash flow. Access to suitable, affordable credit products can support people’s financial resilience and help them achieve their financial goals.

For this reason, the Government is committed to improving access to affordable credit. HM Treasury regularly engages with lenders on a range of policy matters, including how the provision of affordable credit can be strengthened.

The Government’s recently published Financial Inclusion Strategy sets out an ambitious package of measures to improve access to affordable credit. This includes support for the community finance sector and a pilot of a small-sum lending scheme, run by Fair4All Finance, which will test the offer of small value loans from a mainstream lender.

Lucy Rigby
Economic Secretary (HM Treasury)
24th Nov 2025
To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what support she is offering for the building societies, in the context of the government's ambition to double the size of the mutuals sector.

The government is committed to supporting the growth of building societies in line with the manifesto commitment to double the size of the mutual and co-operative sector. HM Treasury has already announced measures to support the sector and is currently progressing these.

For building societies specifically, HM Treasury has committed to progressing further amendments to the Building Societies Act 1986. This follows two statutory instruments being laid in October 2024, which raise the turnover limit for the definition of a small business for the purpose of wholesale funding limit exclusions, remove outdated director retirement requirements, and simplify how balance sheets are signed. These will create a more supportive legislative environment for building societies.

To support all financial mutuals, HM Treasury has also asked the Prudential Regulation Authority and Financial Conduct Authority to produce a report on the current landscape of the sector. This is expected to be published before the end of 2025. The government also welcomed the establishment of the Mutual and Co-operative Sector Business Council to consider mutual and co-operative solutions. The government also published the Financial Services Growth and Competitiveness Strategy, which will support all organisations in the financial services sector and encourages the sector to continue to work in partnership with government to deliver growth.

Lucy Rigby
Economic Secretary (HM Treasury)
24th Nov 2025
To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, pursuant to the answer of 17 November 2025, to Question 89478, on Chinese Embassy: Planning Permission, if she will list each date that she has met representatives of the Chinese Government.

As stated in my previous answer, the Chancellor has engaged with the Chinese Government on a number of occasions to discuss economic and financial issues. Data on ministers' overseas travel and meetings with external individuals and organisations is published every quarter. This can be found here and here.

Lucy Rigby
Economic Secretary (HM Treasury)
24th Nov 2025
To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, how much the UK has raised for Ukraine through the use of proceeds from frozen Russian assets; and how this compares with contributions from the EU and G7 countries.

The Chancellor is committed to exploring a reparations loan to enable the value of sanctioned Russian sovereign assets held in the UK to be directed to supporting Ukraine.

The government continues to work in partnership with international partners including the G7 and European Union to achieve this.

To date, the UK has provided £21.8bn in support for Ukraine. This includes the commitment to the provide £2.26bn as part of the $50bn Extraordinary Revenue Acceleration Scheme for Ukraine, which utilised the extraordinary profits generated from immobilised Russian Sovereign Assets held in the EU.

Lucy Rigby
Economic Secretary (HM Treasury)
24th Nov 2025
To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what assessment she has made of the potential implications for her policies of EU proposals for a €140 billion reparations loan backed by Russian state-owned assets; and whether she is considering a similar mechanism.

The Chancellor is committed to exploring a reparations loan to enable the value of sanctioned Russian sovereign assets held in the UK to be directed to supporting Ukraine.

The government continues to work in partnership with international partners including the G7 and European Union to achieve this.

To date, the UK has provided £21.8bn in support for Ukraine. This includes the commitment to the provide £2.26bn as part of the $50bn Extraordinary Revenue Acceleration Scheme for Ukraine, which utilised the extraordinary profits generated from immobilised Russian Sovereign Assets held in the EU.

Lucy Rigby
Economic Secretary (HM Treasury)
25th Nov 2025
To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, with reference to BBC article entitled Tax rises could push food prices higher, warn supermarkets, published on 26 October, what steps she is taking to work with retailers to mitigate the impact of food inflation.

The Government has announced a Food Inflation Gateway to assess and monitor regulation that could add to food prices. This will improve coordination and give food businesses a clear line of sight on upcoming regulatory changes, helping to keep costs down

The Government is also negotiating an agri-food agreement with the EU to reduce trade frictions, which is expected to save businesses up to £200 per fresh food shipment, helping to limit cost pressures across supply chains.

In addition, supermarkets will see a reduction in their total business rates bills in 2026/27 compared with 2025/26, and this will be kept under review at the next revaluation. The Office for Budget Responsibility does not expect changes in business rates to have a material impact on food inflation.

Overall, the OBR’s forecast shows government policy will reduce CPI inflation by 0.4 percentage points in 2026/27. This is the biggest near-term reduction in inflation due to government policy ever forecast by the OBR at a single fiscal event, outside of a crisis.

Lucy Rigby
Economic Secretary (HM Treasury)
25th Nov 2025
To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what steps HM Treasury is taking to increase enforcement of financial sanctions and prevent terrorist financing in Northern Ireland.

HMT undertakes an evidence-based approach to ensure that counter-terrorism sanctions are used in a timely and effective manner in support of national security and to prevent terrorism, including addressing terrorist financing risks.

HMT assesses every instance of reported non-compliance with financial sanctions, working in collaboration with law enforcement partners where necessary, and takes action in all cases where we conclude a breach has occurred.

Lucy Rigby
Economic Secretary (HM Treasury)
17th Nov 2025
To ask His Majesty's Government what steps they are taking to improve data quality standards in financial services to ensure the reliable use of artificial intelligence in regulatory compliance.

The government’s ambition is to make the UK a global leader in AI, leveraging our dual strength in financial services and AI to drive growth, productivity, and consumer benefits. Encouraging safe adoption is an essential part of realising that ambition.

As set out in the Bank of England and Financial Conduct Authority’s October 2022 discussion paper on artificial intelligence and machine learning, a range of existing legal requirements and guidance are relevant to the UK financial sector’s use of AI across the AI lifecycle. This includes in relation to data quality.

The government’s response to the AI Opportunities Action Plan also sets out the steps we will take to responsibly unlock data assets in the public and private sector.


Lord Livermore
Financial Secretary (HM Treasury)
26th Nov 2025
To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what assessment her Department has made of the potential impact of financial services firms requiring mobile phone-based authentication as a condition of accessing online accounts on (a) disabled and (b) elderly consumers; and whether she has had discussions with the Financial Conduct Authority about ensuring alternatives are made available.

The Government recognises the importance of ensuring people can access the financial products and services they need. The Government is committed to ensuring high standards of financial inclusion across the financial services sector.

The Payment Services Regulations 2017 require firms to apply strong customer authentication when users access their payment account online, initiate an electronic payment or carry out any action through a remote channel (e.g. via the internet) which may carry a risk of payment fraud, unless an exemption applies (e.g. for low-value purchases). Firms are able to choose which methods of authentication they apply.

The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), which is independent of the Government, issues detailed standards for firms on strong customer authentication. The FCA expects firms to develop strong customer authentication solutions that work for all groups of consumers, including those with protected characteristics. This means it may be necessary for firms to provide different methods of authentication, for example when customers face difficulties accessing or using a mobile device.

The FCA also requires authorised financial services firms to comply with their ‘Consumer Duty’, which requires them to deliver good outcomes for retail customers. The Consumer Duty has rules and guidance covering key aspects of the firm-customer relationship. For example, it requires firms to ensure that the design of the product or service meets the needs, characteristics and objectives of their target consumer market. More detail on the Consumer Duty can be found on the FCA’s website: https://www.fca.org.uk/firms/consumer-duty

It is important that people are able to take advantage of digital innovation, and the opportunities this presents, to manage their money more effectively. This is why the issues of access to banking and digital inclusion have been considered as key areas of focus in the Government's recently published Financial Inclusion Strategy.

Lucy Rigby
Economic Secretary (HM Treasury)
26th Nov 2025
To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, whether her Department is taking steps to help ensure that financial services firms offer alternatives to mobile phone authentication for customers who cannot use such technology.

The Government recognises the importance of ensuring people can access the financial products and services they need. The Government is committed to ensuring high standards of financial inclusion across the financial services sector.

The Payment Services Regulations 2017 require firms to apply strong customer authentication when users access their payment account online, initiate an electronic payment or carry out any action through a remote channel (e.g. via the internet) which may carry a risk of payment fraud, unless an exemption applies (e.g. for low-value purchases). Firms are able to choose which methods of authentication they apply.

The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), which is independent of the Government, issues detailed standards for firms on strong customer authentication. The FCA expects firms to develop strong customer authentication solutions that work for all groups of consumers, including those with protected characteristics. This means it may be necessary for firms to provide different methods of authentication, for example when customers face difficulties accessing or using a mobile device.

The FCA also requires authorised financial services firms to comply with their ‘Consumer Duty’, which requires them to deliver good outcomes for retail customers. The Consumer Duty has rules and guidance covering key aspects of the firm-customer relationship. For example, it requires firms to ensure that the design of the product or service meets the needs, characteristics and objectives of their target consumer market. More detail on the Consumer Duty can be found on the FCA’s website: https://www.fca.org.uk/firms/consumer-duty

It is important that people are able to take advantage of digital innovation, and the opportunities this presents, to manage their money more effectively. This is why the issues of access to banking and digital inclusion have been considered as key areas of focus in the Government's recently published Financial Inclusion Strategy.

Lucy Rigby
Economic Secretary (HM Treasury)
26th Nov 2025
To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what estimate the Financial Conduct Authority has made of the number of consumers who have reported difficulty accessing financial services due to mandatory mobile phone authentication.

The Government recognises the importance of ensuring people can access the financial products and services they need. The Government is committed to ensuring high standards of financial inclusion across the financial services sector.

The Payment Services Regulations 2017 require firms to apply strong customer authentication when users access their payment account online, initiate an electronic payment or carry out any action through a remote channel (e.g. via the internet) which may carry a risk of payment fraud, unless an exemption applies (e.g. for low-value purchases). Firms are able to choose which methods of authentication they apply.

The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), which is independent of the Government, issues detailed standards for firms on strong customer authentication. The FCA expects firms to develop strong customer authentication solutions that work for all groups of consumers, including those with protected characteristics. This means it may be necessary for firms to provide different methods of authentication, for example when customers face difficulties accessing or using a mobile device.

The FCA also requires authorised financial services firms to comply with their ‘Consumer Duty’, which requires them to deliver good outcomes for retail customers. The Consumer Duty has rules and guidance covering key aspects of the firm-customer relationship. For example, it requires firms to ensure that the design of the product or service meets the needs, characteristics and objectives of their target consumer market. More detail on the Consumer Duty can be found on the FCA’s website: https://www.fca.org.uk/firms/consumer-duty

It is important that people are able to take advantage of digital innovation, and the opportunities this presents, to manage their money more effectively. This is why the issues of access to banking and digital inclusion have been considered as key areas of focus in the Government's recently published Financial Inclusion Strategy.

Lucy Rigby
Economic Secretary (HM Treasury)
26th Nov 2025
To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what proportion of homes under the Mortgage Guarantee Scheme have been bought by first-time buyers.

The Government recognises the difficulties some prospective first-time buyers face in buying a home and is committed to helping them get on the housing ladder.

The new Mortgage Guarantee Scheme is now permanently available to lenders, and is designed to support and sustain the availability of low deposit mortgage products for credit-worthy borrowers. 95% loan-to-value mortgage products can be particularly important for first-time buyers who may struggle to raise larger deposits, and the scheme aims to support this segment of the UK mortgage market.

Lucy Rigby
Economic Secretary (HM Treasury)
26th Nov 2025
To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, with reference to the Financial Inclusion Strategy, published on 5 November, whether the Government plans to develop targets as well as metrics to monitor progress in delivering the Strategy’s objectives on improving access to affordable credit.

Earlier this month, I published the Government’s Financial Inclusion Strategy setting out an ambitious programme of measures to improve financial inclusion and resilience for underserved groups across the UK. The Strategy was developed alongside a committee of industry and consumer representatives and seeks to tackle a range of barriers individuals face in accessing financial products, including a key focus on improving access to credit.

As part of developing the strategy, the Government has engaged with Financial Inclusion Committee members and other organisations on how to measure its impact. The Strategy’s implementation will be reviewed in two years’ time to provide an update on interventions and relevant outcomes-based metrics, which will reflect on the progress made across the sector.

The Government will continue to work closely with the sector as we implement the strategy, including continuing to engage with firms on interventions to strengthen the provision of affordable credit.

Lucy Rigby
Economic Secretary (HM Treasury)
25th Nov 2025
To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what estimate her Department has made of the cost to the economy of recent outages of large-scale cloud providers.

I refer the member to the answer given to UIN 92928 on 24 November 2025.

James Murray
Chief Secretary to the Treasury
14th Nov 2025
To ask His Majesty's Government what estimate they have made of the proportion of (1) defined contribution, and (2) defined benefit, pension schemes that use salary sacrifice for auto-enrolled workers.

Whilst the government does not currently hold these figures, 39% of employers offer salary sacrifice and 35% of employees use it. We would expect that the vast majority of pension schemes using salary sacrifice include workers covered by pensions automatic enrolment. Automatic enrolment applies to workers aged between 22 and the State Pension age and earning at least £10,000 a year. The latest figures indicate that the majority (94%) of employees using salary sacrifice are eligible for auto-enrolment.

Lord Livermore
Financial Secretary (HM Treasury)
21st Nov 2025
To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what estimate her Department has made of the number and proportion of retail businesses that only accept cash.

The Government recognises that cash continues to be used by millions of people across the UK, including those in vulnerable groups, and is committed to protecting access to cash for individuals and businesses.

The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) assumed regulatory responsibility for access to cash in September 2024. Its rules ensure cash continues to be a viable method of payment for the millions of people who depend on it and help businesses to continue to accept cash by providing reasonable access to cash deposit facilities.

It is for each business to decide on the forms of payment it chooses to accept. This will be based on a variety of factors, including cost and customer preferences. The Government does not hold data on the number and proportion of businesses who only accept cash.

Lucy Rigby
Economic Secretary (HM Treasury)
17th Nov 2025
To ask His Majesty's Government what steps they are taking to review tax and residency rules, following reports of UK technology founders relocating overseas.

The UK uses the Statutory Residence Test (SRT) to determine UK residency for tax purposes. UK tax residents normally pay tax on their worldwide income and gains, while non-UK residents only pay UK tax on their UK income and gains.

The Government’s priority is improving the UK’s competitiveness internationally and securing economic growth.

The Government is backing entrepreneurs and fostering a pro-business environment by ensuring the tax system is designed to support innovation and economic growth. That is why we have announced a package of measures to back entrepreneurship at Autumn Budget 2025.

The Government keeps tax and residency rules under review to ensure they remain competitive and responsive to the needs of innovative sectors, including technology.

Lord Livermore
Financial Secretary (HM Treasury)
21st Nov 2025
To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what steps her Department is taking to help support the growth of the mutual banking and building society sector.

The government is committed to supporting the growth of building societies and all mutual financial services in line with the manifesto commitment to double the size of the mutual and co-operative sector. HM Treasury has already announced measures to support financial mutuals and is currently progressing these.

For building societies, HM Treasury has committed to progressing further amendments to the Building Societies Act 1986. This follows two statutory instruments being laid in October 2024, which allow building societies to accept deposits from a wider range of SMEs, remove outdated director retirement requirements, and simplify how balance sheets are signed. These will create a more supportive legislative environment for building societies.

To support all financial mutuals, HM Treasury has also asked the Prudential Regulation Authority and Financial Conduct Authority to produce a report on the current landscape of the sector. This is expected to be published before the end of 2025. The government also welcomed the establishment of the Mutual and Co-operative Sector Business Council to consider mutual and co-operative solutions. The government also published the Financial Services Growth and Competitiveness Strategy, which will support all organisations in the financial services sector and encourages the sector to continue to work in partnership with government to deliver growth. Finally, the government is also supporting the credit union sector by committing to bringing forward a package of growth-focused reforms to the credit union common bond.

The government continues to engage regularly with mutuals to understand the current barriers they face and consider further opportunities to help the sector grow.

Lucy Rigby
Economic Secretary (HM Treasury)
25th Nov 2025
To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what estimate her Department has made of the level of illegal doorstep lending in England for which the latest data is available.

Illegal money lenders — more commonly known as loan sharks — are dangerous criminals capable of inflicting terrible harm on their victims. To combat this, the Government funds specialist Illegal Money Lending Teams (IMLTs) operating across the UK. These teams investigate and prosecute illegal money lenders and offer support to their victims.

Because of the underground nature of illegal money lending, HM Treasury does not have data on the number of victims of illegal money lending each year. However, HM Treasury officials regularly engage with the IMLTs to receive updates on their work, including on prosecutions, support provided to victims, and any key trends. To learn more about the work of the IMLTs, visit the Stop Loan Sharks website: https://www.stoploansharks.co.uk/.

Lucy Rigby
Economic Secretary (HM Treasury)
24th Nov 2025
To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what assessment she has made of the impact of fuel duty rates on (a) households that rely on vehicles for work, or in areas with limited public transport, and (b) small businesses, the logistics sector and supply chains.

At Budget 2025, the Government announced continued support for people and businesses by extending the temporary 5p fuel duty cut until the end of August 2026. Rates will then gradually return to previous levels. The planned increase in line with inflation for 2026-27 will not take place, with the government uprating fuel duty rates by RPI from April 2027. This will save the average car driver £49 next year compared to previous plans.

The Government considers the impact of fuel duty on the economy, including households and businesses, with decisions on rates made at fiscal events.

Dan Tomlinson
Exchequer Secretary (HM Treasury)
21st Nov 2025
To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, if her Department will make an assessment of the potential impact of the taxation of inherited pensions before transfer into trusts on the long-term financial security of disabled beneficiaries.

Certain types of trusts for vulnerable people, including disabled persons trusts, are exempt from inheritance charges which normally apply to other types of trusts. No inheritance tax is charged on payments made to a beneficiary from a disabled persons trust. These are longstanding rules and are not changing.

From 6 April 2027, most unused pension funds and death benefits payable from a pension will form part of a person’s estate for inheritance tax purposes. This removes distortions resulting from changes that have been made to pensions tax policy over the last decade, which have led to pensions being openly used and marketed as a tax planning vehicle to transfer wealth, rather than as a way to fund retirement.

Following these changes, any unused pension funds or death benefits left to a disabled persons trust on the settlor’s death, will therefore be in scope for inheritance tax in the same way as other assets in the settlor’s estate, such as cash or property. This is the longstanding position for assets settled into a disabled persons trust following the settlor’s death.

The government estimates that more than 90% of estates will continue to have no inheritance tax liability following these changes and the transferable tax-free nil-rate bands mean that estates can continue to pass on up to £1 million without an inheritance tax liability.

Dan Tomlinson
Exchequer Secretary (HM Treasury)
17th Nov 2025
To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what consultation her Department has undertaken with vehicle manufacturers and the wider automotive industry on the proposed changes to Employee Car Ownership Schemes, including the number of meetings held since July 2024; and whether the figures used to inform the proposed changes have been independently verified.

At Budget 2025, the government announced that, to allow more time for the sector to prepare for and adapt to the proposed changes in treatment to Employee Car Ownership Schemes (ECOS), its implementation will be delayed to 6 April 2030, with transitional arrangements until April 2032. The tax impact and information notice (TIIN) has been updated to reflect the impact of the changes on the automotive industry. You can find the TIIN here:

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/changes-to-employee-car-ownership-schemes-for-income-tax/changes-to-employee-car-ownership-schemes-ecos

The government maintains regular engagement with vehicle manufacturers and the wider automotive industry. The costing has been certified by the Office for Budget Responsibility.

Dan Tomlinson
Exchequer Secretary (HM Treasury)
18th Nov 2025
To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what assessment she has made of cost pressures for the haulage industry, ahead of the Budget.

The Government recognises the key role the haulage sector plays in the UK economy and regularly engages with its representatives.

At Budget 2025, the Government announced continued support for people and businesses by extending the temporary 5p fuel duty cut until the end of August 2026. Rates will then gradually return to previous levels. The planned increase in line with inflation for 2026-27 will not take place, with the government uprating fuel duty rates by RPI from April 2027. This will save the average HGV driver £843 next year compared to previous plans.

From 1 April 2026, Vehicle Excise Duty (VED) standard rates for Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs) and HGV levy rates will be uprated by RPI for 2026-27. Hauliers will not see a real-terms increase in VED or HGV levy liabilities, as rates have increased to keep pace with inflation only.

The Government considers the impact of motoring taxes on the economy, including households and businesses, with decisions on rates made at fiscal events.

Dan Tomlinson
Exchequer Secretary (HM Treasury)
25th Nov 2025
To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, if she will make an assessment of the potential impact of proposed changes to EU customs arrangements on UK businesses.

On 17 May 2023, the European Commission proposed a revision of the Union Customs Code. The proposal is still subject to EU internal procedures; therefore, we cannot comment on the final proposal. However, we are following these suggested reforms closely, and continue to engage with the EU and business, particularly on potential impacts for UK businesses

Dan Tomlinson
Exchequer Secretary (HM Treasury)
24th Nov 2025
To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, whether she plans to require large investors and pension funds to publish net zero transition plans.

Transition plans are central to the UK’s ambition to be a global leader in sustainable finance, supporting clean energy growth and transparency in financial markets, including for large investors and pension funds. Credible transition planning helps allocate capital effectively and builds market confidence.

Earlier this year, the Government consulted on implementation options for transition plans, seeking views on how to take forward transition planning in a way that supports the market’s need for credible and decision-useful information, encourages action in line with the UK climate commitments, and drives economic growth. This consultation closed on 17 September. The Government is currently processing feedback and will publish its response in due course.

Torsten Bell
Parliamentary Secretary (HM Treasury)
19th Nov 2025
To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what assessment her Department has made of UK spirits duty rates for the on-trade compared to equivalent rates in (a) Ireland, (b) France, (c) Germany, and (d) other EU member states.

The UK’s alcohol duty system balances protecting the public finances and promoting health.

There is significant variation in alcohol taxation policy amongst European countries. The World Health Organization recently published a comparison of alcohol taxes across the WHO European Region, which can be found here.

Dan Tomlinson
Exchequer Secretary (HM Treasury)
20th Nov 2025
To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what steps she is taking to support older people with the cost of utility bills.

We’re committed to helping pensioners with the cost of living and ensuring financial security in retirement. The State Pension is the foundation of that support. At Autumn Budget 2025 we announced that, in line with the Government’s commitment to the Triple Lock throughout this parliament, over 12 million pensioners will benefit from a 4.8% increase to their basic or new State Pension in April 2026, increasing their income by up to £575 a year. This follows a substantial increase in 2025/26.

The Pension Credit Standard Minimum Guarantee will increase by 4.8% in April 2026, from £227.10 to £238 a week for a single pensioner and from £346.60 to £363.25 a week for a couple, protecting the income of the poorest pensioners. Those in receipt of Pension Credit will also automatically receive the Cold Weather Payment alongside other benefits


The Winter Fuel Payment will benefit over three quarters of pensioners for the duration of this parliament, targeting help to those on lower and middle incomes while ensuring fairness for pensioners and taxpayers


To reduce cost of living pressures immediately, the Budget removed around £150 on average off household energy bills from April 2026 by ending the Energy Company Obligation and taking some of the expensive legacy levies off bills


The Government knows that more needs to be done to support vulnerable households struggling with their energy bills. That's why we are expanding the Warm Home Discount to around an additional 2.7 million households. From this winter, around 6 million low-income households will receive the £150 support to help with their energy bill costs.

We are also providing support for low-income households through our Warm Homes Plan which will support investment in insulation and low carbon heating – upgrading millions of homes over this Parliament. At the recent Budget, we announced £1.5 billion in new funding to support households facing fuel poverty.

Torsten Bell
Parliamentary Secretary (HM Treasury)
20th Nov 2025
To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what recent estimate she has made of the number of older people unable to pay utility bills.

We’re committed to helping pensioners with the cost of living and ensuring financial security in retirement. The State Pension is the foundation of that support. At Autumn Budget 2025 we announced that, in line with the Government’s commitment to the Triple Lock throughout this parliament, over 12 million pensioners will benefit from a 4.8% increase to their basic or new State Pension in April 2026, increasing their income by up to £575 a year. This follows a substantial increase in 2025/26.

The Pension Credit Standard Minimum Guarantee will increase by 4.8% in April 2026, from £227.10 to £238 a week for a single pensioner and from £346.60 to £363.25 a week for a couple, protecting the income of the poorest pensioners. Those in receipt of Pension Credit will also automatically receive the Cold Weather Payment alongside other benefits


The Winter Fuel Payment will benefit over three quarters of pensioners for the duration of this parliament, targeting help to those on lower and middle incomes while ensuring fairness for pensioners and taxpayers


To reduce cost of living pressures immediately, the Budget removed around £150 on average off household energy bills from April 2026 by ending the Energy Company Obligation and taking some of the expensive legacy levies off bills


The Government knows that more needs to be done to support vulnerable households struggling with their energy bills. That's why we are expanding the Warm Home Discount to around an additional 2.7 million households. From this winter, around 6 million low-income households will receive the £150 support to help with their energy bill costs.

We are also providing support for low-income households through our Warm Homes Plan which will support investment in insulation and low carbon heating – upgrading millions of homes over this Parliament. At the recent Budget, we announced £1.5 billion in new funding to support households facing fuel poverty.

Torsten Bell
Parliamentary Secretary (HM Treasury)
20th Nov 2025
To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what assessment she has made of the disparity between wage growth and increases in living costs in Greater Manchester.

Through the growth mission, the government will deliver a milestone of higher living standards in every part of the United Kingdom by the end of the Parliament. The main route to higher living standards is through good, productive jobs, stable employment, and a thriving business environment.

The government is taking action to cut the cost of living and bring down inflation. At the Budget 2025, the government announced that it would deliver a set of measures to remove an average of £150 from household energy bills from April 2026 and would implement a one-year freeze on regulated train fares and prescription charges.

James Murray
Chief Secretary to the Treasury
20th Nov 2025
To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what recent assessment her Department has made of the cost-of-living pressures facing working people in Greater Manchester.

The government is prioritising cutting the cost of living and improving living standards across the UK, including for residents in Greater Manchester. The government recognises that people are still feeling the squeeze on their finances with essential areas such as energy, food and housing remaining too high. That is why we have announced that we are taking around £150 on average off household energy bills, expanding the £150 Warm Home Discount to 6 million lower income households, freezing regulated rail fares and NHS prescription fees for one-year, and extending temporary 5p fuel duty cut until the end of August 2026.

James Murray
Chief Secretary to the Treasury
20th Nov 2025
To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, whether she has made an assessment of the potential merits of extending the current six‑month deadline for the payment of Inheritance Tax in cases of administrative delays in the granting of probate.

The deadline for payment of Inheritance Tax (IHT) is the end of the sixth month after the month in which the death occurs. Personal representatives (PRs) are required to make a payment of IHT before applying for probate. This is a longstanding requirement which ensures that the tax due can be collected quickly and efficiently.

HMRC offers several payment options if there are not sufficient liquid funds in the estate to pay IHT before applying for probate, including the Direct Payment Scheme and the option to pay IHT by yearly instalments. For assets which are eligible for payment of IHT by instalments, only the first instalment will be due before PRs can proceed to apply for probate. Further information on IHT payment options is available at: https://www.gov.uk/paying-inheritance-tax

In certain circumstances, PRs may also apply to HMRC to defer payment of the IHT until probate has been granted (a ‘grant on credit’). Once probate has been issued, the PRs will be expected to pay the outstanding tax as soon as possible. Further information on this option is available here: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/applying-for-a-grant-on-credit-for-inheritance-tax

HM Courts & Tribunals Service has invested in more staff, alongside system and process improvements to reduce and maintain lower processing times for probate applications during the last year. The Ministry of Justice publishes regular data on probate timeliness in the quarterly family court statistics bulletin: https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/family-court-statistics-quarterly

Dan Tomlinson
Exchequer Secretary (HM Treasury)
20th Nov 2025
To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, pursuant to WPQ 80434 answered on 17 October 2025, what assessment she has made of the potential merits of the proposals on the (a) minimum share rule, (b) upper limit on relief and (c) transferrable allowance in that report.

The Government believes its reforms to agricultural property relief and business property relief from 6 April 2026 get the balance right between supporting farms and businesses, and fixing the public finances. The reforms reduce the inheritance tax advantages available to owners of agricultural and business assets, but still mean those assets will be taxed at a much lower effective rate than most other assets. Despite a tough fiscal context, the Government will maintain very significant levels of relief from inheritance tax beyond what is available to others and compared to the position before 1992. Where inheritance tax is due, those liable for a charge can pay any liability on the relevant assets over 10 annual instalments, interest-free.

As announced at Budget 2025, any unused £1 million allowance for the 100% rate of agricultural property relief and business property relief will be transferable between spouses and civil partners, including if the first death was before 6 April 2026.

The report by the independent Centre for the Analysis of Taxation (CenTax) sets out its other potential amendments to the policy are not, in its own words, a “silver bullet”. For example, CenTax acknowledge the proposal for a minimum share test is less effective than the Government’s reforms in raising revenue from the wealthiest estates, could be exposed to tax planning opportunities, would not necessarily prevent wealthy individuals buying land for inheritance tax purposes, and would mean double the number of estates being affected by the reforms (and largely estates below £2 million).

Dan Tomlinson
Exchequer Secretary (HM Treasury)
19th Nov 2025
To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, if she will make an assessment of the potential impact of a 5 pence per litre rise in fuel duty on (a) GDP and (b) levels of employment in the logistics sector.

At Budget 2025, the Government announced continued support for people and businesses by extending the temporary 5p fuel duty cut until the end of August 2026. Rates will then gradually return to previous levels. The planned increase in line with inflation for 2026-27 will not take place, with the government increasing fuel duty rates in line with RPI from April 2027. This will save the average van driver £100 next year compared to previous plans, and the average HGV driver more than £800.

The Government considers the impact of fuel duty on the economy, including households and businesses, with decisions on rates made at fiscal events.

Dan Tomlinson
Exchequer Secretary (HM Treasury)
24th Nov 2025
To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what change in the number of people paying income tax at 40% does she estimate will take place between 2023 and 2028.

The number of people forecast to pay tax by marginal rate from 2023-24 to 2028-29 can be found in Table 3.19 in the OBR’s November 2025 Economic and fiscal outlook – detailed forecast tables: receipts, linked below:

https://obr.uk/download/november-2025-economic-and-fiscal-outlook-detailed-forecast-tables-receipts/?tmstv=1764165511

The previous Government made the decision to maintain income tax thresholds at their current levels from April 2021 until April 2028.

Dan Tomlinson
Exchequer Secretary (HM Treasury)
24th Nov 2025
To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, when she plans to provide an answer to Question 22764 on Government Securities: Public Sector Debt.

A response was provided for Question 22764 on 13 January 2025. The government does not comment on specific financial market movements.

James Murray
Chief Secretary to the Treasury
24th Nov 2025
To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, pursuant to WPQ 91913, did the dedicated director of the National Wealth Fund based in Northern Ireland meet with the Northern Ireland Executive (a) once, or (b) more than once, since December 2024.

Pursuant to WPQ 91913, in 2025 the National Wealth Fund’s Regional Director for Northern Ireland has met with the Northern Ireland Executive more than once to discuss investment opportunities.

James Murray
Chief Secretary to the Treasury
20th Nov 2025
To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, whether the Treasury plans to introduce additional protections for individuals who face retaliation as a result of engaging with the HMRC whistleblowing reward scheme; and whether HMRC will be required to provide support to whistleblowers involved in employment disputes or SLAPP-type legal proceedings arising from their disclosures.

HMRC treats all informants with the highest levels of confidentiality and security in line with the Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act (RIPA) 2000 and the Covert Human Intelligence Sources (CHIS) Codes of Practice.

There is no legal obligation on HMRC to participate in an employment tribunal of an informant. However, if requested, HMRC can provide a disclosure to the informant or their legal representative to support any employment tribunal under Sec 18 (2)(c) Commissioners for Revenue and Customs Act 2005.

Dan Tomlinson
Exchequer Secretary (HM Treasury)
20th Nov 2025
To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what steps her Department will take to ensure transparency in the operation of HMRC's proposed whistleblowing reward scheme; and whether she plans to publish (a) eligibility criteria and award thresholds for applicants, and (b) data on the number and value of awards granted.

At Autumn Budget on 26 November 2025 the Government launched the Rewards for informants of high value tax fraud. This scheme is designed to target serious non-compliance involving large corporates, wealthy individuals, offshore and avoidance schemes. Informants can receive a reward of between 15 and 30% when they provide information which leads directly to HMRC collecting more than £1.5M tax. HMRC have published eligibility criteria for the scheme at https://www.gov.uk/guidance/reporting-serious-tax-avoidance-and-evasion.

HMRC has previously published data on the total amount of rewards paid annually through the standard informants reward scheme and will continue to do so. To protect the confidentiality of informants we do not publish the number of rewards or size of individual rewards.

Dan Tomlinson
Exchequer Secretary (HM Treasury)
19th Nov 2025
To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what assessment she has made of the effectiveness of penalties for people engaged in the illegal trade of tobacco products.

HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) has a robust strategy to tackle the illicit tobacco trade which can be found here https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/stubbing-out-the-problem-a-new-strategy-to-tackle-illicit-tobacco/stubbing-out-the-problem-a-new-strategy-to-tackle-illicit-tobacco

This strategy combines legislation, controls, operations and sanctions to penalise and deter those involved in the illegal trade of tobacco products.

HMRC works together with partner agencies such as Border Force and Trading Standards in tackling illicit tobacco. Penalties provide a strong deterrent effect and play a key role in enforcement activity. Published data on seizures, criminal investigations and civil penalties related to tobacco can be found here https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/annual-outputs-for-tacking-tobacco-smuggling

The scope, impact and effectiveness of penalties are continually reviewed as part of the wider tobacco strategy. Strong enforcement supported by robust penalties has contributed to a significant reduction in the estimated duty gap by around one third for cigarettes (from 16.9% in 2005 to 10.5% in 2023 to 2024) and by nearly two thirds for hand-rolling tobacco (from 65.2% to 22.9% over the same period).

Dan Tomlinson
Exchequer Secretary (HM Treasury)