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Membership-based Charity Organisations

17 December 2025

Lead MP

Caroline Dinenage
Gosport
Con

Responding Minister

Stephanie Peacock

Tags

EconomyTaxation
Word Count: 7093
Other Contributors: 6

At a Glance

Caroline Dinenage raised concerns about membership-based charity organisations in Westminster Hall. A government minister responded.

Key Requests to Government:

The Government should provide support to help these organisations cope with financial challenges and ensure they can continue their important work without further strain.

How the Debate Unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:

Lead Contributor

Gosport
Opened the debate
Charity organisations are under strain due to financial pressures, increased service demands, and declining donations. The National Trust has seen an increase in costs leading to changes such as replacing homemade scones, while the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals is operating at 120% capacity.

Government Response

Stephanie Peacock
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport
Government Response
The Minister thanks hon. Members for their contributions and acknowledges the importance of membership-based charities in the UK. She mentions that her department is committed to supporting these organisations and addressing their concerns, including those related to gift aid, subscription cooling-off periods, and regulatory changes. Over the past year, I have engaged with many charities to understand their concerns about the Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Act. The Government continues to carefully consider these issues and is committed to continuing close engagement with charities on subscription regulations. HMRC’s guidance has been changed to allow eligible charities to continue claiming gift aid on membership subscriptions. Additionally, the employment allowance was more than doubled to support small businesses and charities. Direct funding initiatives such as the £270 million arts everywhere fund and the better futures fund provide significant financial support for charitable organisations. The Government also supports charities through tax reliefs, including gift aid and VAT exemptions, which benefit numerous organisations annually. Outlined work to connect philanthropists with local communities, reduce administrative burdens by 25%, save charities £47 million annually through updated financial thresholds, and establish a civil society covenant and council.
Assessment & feedback
Summary accuracy

About Westminster Hall Debates

Westminster Hall debates are a chance for MPs to raise important issues affecting their constituents and get a response from a government minister. Unlike Prime Minister's Questions, these debates are more in-depth and collaborative. The MP who secured the debate speaks first, other MPs can contribute, and a minister responds with the government's position.