Ecclesiastical’s response to Fiscal Statement

Angus Roy, charity director at Ecclesiastical, commented: 

“While it is encouraging that the government is providing a much-needed boost to the economy, it’s disappointing that the chancellor hasn’t used this fiscal statement as an opportunity to give specific support to the charity sector.  A sector that will be key in helping to rebuild society and the challenges it has faced during this Covid-19 pandemic.  While some charities can benefit from the Government’s new job retention scheme, we want to see more direct support, such as a cut in insurance premium tax (IPT) or increasing the rate of Gift Aid, and we urge him to consider this in future.”

Faith Kitchen, heritage director at Ecclesiastical, commented:

“Ecclesiastical is the UK’s leading insurer of Grade I listed buildings and with over 130 years’ experience we are passionate about protecting the country’s historic and iconic buildings and structures. It is encouraging to see that the government is providing a much-needed boost to the economy. Many heritage organisations will greatly benefit from the Government’s temporary cut to VAT on food, accommodation and attractions from 20% to 5%. However, it’s disappointing that the chancellor hasn’t used this fiscal statement as an opportunity to give direct support to the heritage sector. We need to do more to support the custodians of Britain’s heritage properties, such as reducing VAT on repairs and approved alterations to listed buildings to help organisations and owners of listed properties protect such an important part of the nation’s heritage.”