Ancient Kingston church could be hit with £500k bill

Kingston's ancient All Saints Parish Church could face a half million pound tax bill under proposed tax changes.

Chancellor

George Osbourne has proposed abolishing zero VAT for alterations to

listed buildings, so protected buildings will be charged at the standard

20 percent rate from October. This would add an extra £450,000 to the

cost of All Saints Church's planned revamp, which will include building a

new community centre.

Member of the European Parliament Peter Skinner has written to the Chancellor, asking him to rethink his plans.

The

Labour MEP said: "All Saints Parish Church is a unique historical

landmark that should be preserved... I want the Chancellor to preserve

All Saints Parish Church, protect our history and support small

businesses by reversing this short-sighted VAT increase."

To petition against the changes, visit ePetitions. You can also support the church by purchasing a tile.