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Written question asked by Marion Fellows (Scottish National Party) on Wednesday, 3 June 2020, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 8 June 2020 (named day). It was answered by Jesse Norman (Conservative) on Monday, 8 June 2020 on behalf of the Treasury.


Audiobooks: VAT

Question

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what recent estimate he has made of the potential cost to the Exchequer of removing VAT from audiobooks; and if he will make a statement.

Answer

The extension of the zero rate of VAT has been introduced to provide consistency in approach between certain physical and digital publications in order to support reading and literacy in all its forms. Audiobooks are already taxed consistently at the standard rate in both physical and digital format.

In UK law, a book is deemed to be something that is read or looked at, a definition that does not include audio content in both digital and physical form.

The Government keeps all taxes under review, including VAT.


Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
54134
Session
2019-21
Grouped for answer
Yes
Subjects
VAT Audiobooks
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk