The Glass and Glazing Federation (GGF) says it has ‘some positives’ from George Osborne’s ‘mixed’ Spending Review and Autumn Statement.
Nigel Rees, GGF Group chief executive, said: “Though it was pleasing to see the chancellor address the critical issues of new housing, construction growth and apprenticeships, there were some areas where he could have offered a bit more encouragement for our industry. The energy efficiency challenge in the UK’s housing stock still needs addressing and we were hoping for some alternative to the failed Green Deal scheme.”
Giles Willson, GGF managing director, added: “From the chancellor’s statement, it appears that improving energy efficiency in domestic properties is low on the government’s agenda. However, it was interesting to see that the government is to consult on the rate of VAT on energy saving products with a view to aligning all such products under EU legislation. We will continue to lobby that energy efficient doors and windows should be at the reduced 5% rate of VAT.”
