The 'Cut the VAT' Coalition has announced that The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) has become the latest organisation to join the campaign.

RIBA is one of the most influential architectural institutions in the world, and has been promoting architecture and architects since being awarded its Royal Charter in 1837. The 40,000-strong professional institute is committed to serving the public interest through good design. It represents 85% of registered architects in the UK as well as a significant number of international members.

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The 'Cut the VAT' Coalition believes that reducing VAT from 17.5% to 5% for all maintenance and home improvement work would benefit both society and business in many various ways. These include helping the Government achieve its target of cutting carbon emissions by 80% by 2050; getting rid of rogue traders; helping those who cannot afford vital repairs to their homes; bringing our empty properties back into use; protecting the countryside; stopping the destruction of decent existing buildings and helping to preserve our national heritage.

Sunand Prasad, President at the RIBA said: "We need to get serious about climate change and that means adapting our existing buildings so that we have a better chance of achieving our goal of reaching zero carbon. The current situation unfairly penalises those who wish to refurbish their homes. We urge the Government to remedy this situation and ensure that there is a level playing field and what better way to give the construction sector a long-lasting boost?"

(CD/JM)