30/03/2004 MP Encourages Highland Sports Clubs to Apply for 80% Tax Reductions
MP David Stewart has written to Highland Council and Highland Sports Development Association highlighting a possible financial boost for grass roots sport in the area.
The move by Mr Stewart, who represents Inverness East, Nairn and Lochaber, comes after an announcement by the Department for Culture Media and Sport that many local sports clubs will be granted an exemption by the Government from paying 80 per cent of local authority rates.
Mr Stewart said: "I am delighted that the department has been able to secure this boost for community amateur sports clubs. I know the important work that clubs carry out here, giving members access to exercise and a healthy lifestyle and I hope they will take advantage of this additional support.
"I am keen that as many sports clubs as possible in the area take advantage of the scheme and club officials who do not already know about it can contact my office for advice and for registration forms."
Clubs can also contact the Inland Revenue directly to apply to register as Community Amateur Sports Clubs – details and the simple one page application form are available on the Inland revenue website at www.inlandrevenue.gov.uk/casc/index.htm or the Inland Revenue’s Sports Clubs Unit can be contacted on 0131 777 4147.
If you want to contact the MP direct please write to: MP David Stewart, Constituency Office, Queensgate Business Centre, Fraser Street, Inverness, IV1 1DY, or telephone him on 01463 237441.
