asked the Minister for Finance in respect of each year from 1979 to 1986 inclusive the total amount of VAT refunds paid, both flat rate and other, to unregistered farmers.
Written Answers. - VAT Refunds.
38.
The total cost in the years in question of providing compensation through the flat rate system and by direct refunds for VAT borne on inputs by unregistered farmers is as follows:
1979(a), £6.8 million; 1980, £21.0 million; 1981, £22.0 million; 1982, £40.2 million; 1983, £55.4 million; 1984, £59.7 million; 1985, £68.3 million; 1986, £79.4 million.
(a) The flat rate system was not in operation between 1.1 and 28.2.79.