Question to the Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport:

To ask His Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of the impact of the changes to the system for reclaiming VAT on listed places of worship on projects which have already signed a contract and where the work has begun, such as St Mary Magdalene Church in Newark.

Answered by Baroness Twycross - Baroness in Waiting (HM Household) (Whip)

Based on the Department’s analysis of previous data, 94% of applications between 2022-2024 have been under £25,000, and most of these claims were for under £5,000. We believe that the modifications were necessary and adequate given the tight fiscal challenges we inherited from the previous government.

We expect the cap will be applied to all claims received on or after 1 April 2025. We will provide published guidance on scheme applications and eligibility in due course.

Question to the Department for Education:

To ask His Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of the impact of the closure of arts-based courses at universities and colleges on the culture and economy of towns and cities.

Answered by Baroness Smith of Malvern - Minister of State (Department for Work and Pensions)

​​Arts-based courses are an important part of the creative sector’s contribution to society and the economy.

​Local Skills Improvement Plans (LSIPs) are designed to ensure training provision meets local labour market needs. We have placed stronger expectations on higher education (HE) providers, through statutory guidance, to actively engage with LSIPs and consider them when shaping their course offer, supporting local economic growth.

​For this academic year, strategic priorities grant recurrent (programme) funding allocation for world-leading small and specialist providers is being maintained at £57.4 million. This is in line with the government’s priorities to maximise growth and opportunity for students, HE providers and the economy. For performing and creative arts courses at all approved (fee cap) providers, the per student funding rate for eligible courses is being maintained at £130.54 for this academic year.