Bank fines to help fund air ambulance service

The Chancellor, George Osborne announced in his Autumn Statement this week that recently collected LIBOR fines would be used in part to provide relief to the Kent, Surrey and Sussex Air Ambulance by investing in new helicopters so that the service can continue their important work.

THE GOVERNMENT is using money from the LIBOR fines, imposed on the banks for misdemeanours in the financial markets, to support those who demonstrate the best of British values.

Welcoming news of the funding, Simon Kirby MP for Brighton Kemptown and Peacehaven, said: “I was so pleased to hear in the Autumn Statement that there will be both funding and VAT refunds for the Kent, Surrey and Sussex Air Ambulance.

“It is only right that those who behaved so badly should make a donation to those who have given so much to the country. I am certain this money will be put to good use”

“The local Air Ambulance does such amazing work, and are always available at any time of the day, and on any day of the year. This investment in the Air Ambulance will help them maintain their fantastic service, and will allow them to continue to help those who need them the most.

“It is great news for everyone in Brighton Kemptown and Peacehaven that they will be served by newly funded helicopters, and a more securely financed Air Ambulance service.”

Also announced were VAT refunds for all search and rescue, and air ambulance organisations across the whole UK. These refunds could be worth up to £25 million in 5 years, and will go a long way to helping the Sussex Air Ambulance maintain a first class service.