08 Dec 1999
The consultation exercise on introducing an exemption from Air Passenger Duty (APD) for flights from airports in the Scottish Highlands and Islands took off this week with the issue of over 230 letters inviting comments on the subject.
Speaking following a meeting this morning with Treasury Minister Stephen Timms about the impact of APD, Scotland Office Minister, Brian Wilson said:
"This issue is vital to those who live, work or visit the Highlands and Islands. That is why I have asked Scotland Office officials to issue letters to a wide range of public and private sector bodies, over 230 in all, seeking their views and comments on the matter.
"The Government has recognised the impact of APD on the Highlands and Islands and, for the first time, the case for different treatment on grounds of peripherality. I had a very constructive meeting with Stephen Timms.
"It is therefore crucial that every individual and organisation with an interest in the well being of the Highlands and Islands takes part in the consultation exercise currently being carried out by the Customs and Excise. It is only by people expressing their views that they will have the opportunity of influencing the final outcome."
NOTES TO NEWS EDITORS
On 9 November 1999 the Chancellor announced changes to APD to be introduced in the next Budget. The current exemption for the return leg of a journey within the UK will be replaced by a new reduced rate structure for lower cost flights. Customs and Excise will consult on details.
There will also be a consultation exercise on an exemption for flights from airports in the Highlands and Islands from APD, in recognition of the reliance on air transport in these areas.
Any comments on these proposals should be submitted by 14 January 2000 to Robert Drummond-Murray, HM Customs and Excise, EPGS, 3rdFloor West, Ralli Quays, 3 Stanley Street, Salford, MG0 9LA.