Mr. Joe O'Connor:

When the relief was introduced and retained, we accepted that it would be at the standard rate, and would accept that were it to be reintroduced. The amount of relief that could be claimed was increased in 2008. We acknowledge that the quantum of trade union members in the country is more significant than the number of people who claim relief for membership of professional bodies. We are calling for the reintroduction of the relief that was removed seven years ago. Obviously, that can fluctuate in value, as it did in the period between 2001 and 20008, but we wish for it to be restored at that level.