Poll
MP calls for ‘VAT-style’ tax rise to help high street shops
Duncan Baker. Picture: Submitted by Duncan Baker - Credit: Archant
A Norfolk MP is calling for a “VAT-style” tax rise on online sales to help shops get back on their feet after the coronavirus pandemic eases.
North Norfolk MP Duncan Baker asked parliament to consider the 2-3pc rise for internet vendors to help bricks-and-mortar shops.
Speaking in the House of Commons, Mr Baker said: “Let us just remember that our last great leader was Margaret Thatcher, who said that we are a nation of shopkeepers — let us help them.
“Many sectors will be hugely impacted by coronavirus.
“We are now seeing shops being shut on the high street — quite rightly so — and I just want the minister to consider that they will be hit enormously. When we come out of this pandemic, a 2pc or 3pc VAT-style tax rise on online sales transactions to help high streets would be very well considered and welcome.”
A rise in tax on online sales has been called for to help high street retailers recover from the coronavirus pandemic. Picture: Neil Didsbury - Credit: Archant
MORE: Pier fenced off as tourists keep flocking to coastMr Baker added later: “This would be a really sensible and practical way of looking after our local communities and helping them get back on their feet after we come out of this.”
You may also want to watch:
He said the money raised could be used for rate reductions or other forms of support.
Jesse Norman, the financial secretary to the Treasury, said any tax changes would be taken into consideration “at future fiscal events”.
Most Read
- 1 Shock as public toilets torched FOUR times
- 2 'It was divine' - Why this seafood platter is receiving rave reviews online
- 3 WATCH: Demolition of landmark seaside hotel
- 4 Cafe reveals exciting revamp as town gets ready to reopen
- 5 Social distancing stops fish and chip shop's restaurant opening on May 17
- 6 Historic farmhouse in six acres with holiday barn for sale for £1.65m
- 7 Hare coursers snared by police officers using night vision goggles
- 8 Woman bit female police officer after neighbour dispute arrest
- 9 'It went a bit potty' - New cafe owner's tough first few months in lockdown
- 10 Norfolk campsite voted third best in UK
Mr Norman, who is the MP for Hereford and South Herefordshire, said: “The high street, which was under pressure years before the current outbreak, is something we have supported over a period of time, most recently with a comprehensive package of support.”
-Subscribe to our daily coronavirus newsletter, with all the latest from where you live.
