CIF wants Vat cut to boost housing supply

Builders are lobbying for a Vat cut in the budget to boost the supply of new homes after getting legal advice that it is possible under EU law.

There had been a strong campaign last year to reduce the 13.5 per cent Vat rate to 9 per cent to match a similar incentive given to businesses in the restaurant and hotel sector.

But doubts were raised about whether such a move would be ...