VAT ON E-BOOKS

Early day motion 1270, tabled 12 January 2011 by Tom Harris (Labour). Signed by 51 members.

That this House notes that while traditionally printed books and printed papers are exempt from VAT, e-books are subject to the full rate of 20 per cent.; further notes that e-books produced within other jurisdictions are not necessarily subject to similar taxes and therefore enjoy a huge competitive advantage; recognises that e-book publications is a growing industry which should be encouraged and supported within the UK; and calls on the Government to bring forward proposals to standardise VAT for books and printed papers, whether published in electronic or printed form, at the current rate of zero per cent.

Signatures by party: Labour 34, Liberal Democrat 5, Conservative 3, DUP 3, Social Democratic and Labour Party 3, Alliance 1, Independent 1, Plaid Cymru 1.