THE Air Ambulance Service should be exempt from VAT on fuel, just as the Lifeboat Service is, according to Bolton North East MP David Crausby.

Mr Crausby, pictured, has signed an Early Day Motion which calls for the Government to set up a system of grants so that VAT payments on fuel are returned to the Air Ambulance Service.

Unlike the main emergency services, which are paid for by the Government through taxes, the Air Ambulance Service is funded by charitable donations from the public. The Lifeboat Service is funded in the same way, but since 1977 it has been exempt from VAT on fuel costs.

Mr Crausby said: “The rising cost of fuel is putting pressure on many businesses and charities. I am certain this relief would be a huge help to the Air Ambulance service. They are as vital as the Lifeboat Service and this gesture would allow more life saving trips to go ahead.”

Some 70 MPs have signed the motion supporting the rule change and a Government e-petition now has over 148,000 signatures.