A Gwynedd MP has made renewed calls on the UK Government to remove VAT from public defibrillators.

Dwyfor Meirionnydd MP Liz Saville Roberts says communities fundraising for lifesaving equipment should not be penalised by an unnecessary tax.

“Time is critical during a cardiac arrest,” the MP said.

“Making it easier and cheaper to install these devices in villages and community hubs could save lives.”

Mrs Saville Roberts has tabled a Written Parliamentary Question to the Chancellor John Healey asking him whether the government will remove VAT from the purchase of Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs), and what assessment has been made of the impact that such a measure would have on affordability and availability in rural communities across Wales and the UK.

Mrs Saville Roberts has long campaigned on the issue, backing parliamentary efforts to abolish VAT on defibrillators and supporting community fundraising campaigns across the Dwyfor Meirionnydd constituency area.

Mrs Saville Roberts said: “Across Dwyfor Meirionnydd and Wales, communities are doing everything they can to raise money for public defibrillators.

“Villagers, sports clubs, and volunteers are organising events and collecting donations because they know these devices save lives.

“For years, charities and community groups have highlighted the barriers created by VAT on defibrillators.

“Despite widespread recognition of their importance, communities are still being asked to pay extra for equipment that could save a neighbour, friend, or family member.

“This is an issue I have raised previously with Treasury ministers, and I believe the case for change is now stronger than ever.

“Time is critical during a cardiac arrest. Making it easier and cheaper to install these devices in villages and community hubs could save lives.

“Successive governments have rightly recognised the value of public access defibrillators.

“The Chancellor should act now, scrap VAT on public defibrillators and help ensure more of these life-saving devices are available where they are needed most.”