Question to the HM Treasury:
To ask Her Majesty's Government what plans they have to introduce an online sales tax; and, as part of any such plans, whether they intend to hold consultative forums with small businesses, including booksellers.
At Autumn Budget 2021, the Government announced that it will continue to explore the arguments for and against an Online Sales Tax (OST). No decisions on whether to proceed with an OST have yet been made. If implemented, the revenue from an OST would be used to provide business rates relief for in-store retail. The consultation will launch shortly.
The Government would welcome views and evidence from a range of stakeholders, including small businesses and booksellers. Details of how interested stakeholders can engage with the process will be published alongside the consultation.