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Despite a high-profile campaign spearheaded by MRE&W and Trail Magazine, it was announced on Number10.gov - the Prime Minister's website - that the government's opinion was that Mountain Rescue teams should continue to operate within current VAT legislation.

The full release from Number10 can be read here.

Border SAR are obviously disappointed with this view.  Although some of our expenses such as vehicles can be obtained VAT-exempt (as they are registered ambulances) much of our regular equipment, clothing and service costs are still subject to VAT at the normal rate of 15%.  Whilst we have not calculated the exact cost to the team, a VAT exemption would easily save the team hundreds of pounds each year, and around £250,000 annually across the UK.

Mountain Rescue Teams in Scotland do already enjoy some government funding (£300,000 per year, split across the 25 teams, plus approx £100,000 Health Board money for MR posts).

No doubt the fight will go on, as a recent news article in Cumbria shows - Click here.  Feel free to lobby your MP!

Last changed: Jul 04 2009 at 8:28 PM