Monday 10 June 2013

Taken from the Sun on Sunday 9th June 2013 - EURO VAT PRATS



MEDDLING EU chiefs are demanding crippling VAT hikes on everyday goods.

They threaten to send energy bills soaring with a FOUR-FOLD rise in tax on gas, electricity and heating oil. 

The cost of all reduced or zero-rated goods — including water supplies, kids’ clothes and even funerals — could rocket under plans to end VAT-free sales. 

Eurocrats want us to impose a single rate on all goods to wipe £3billion off national debt.
The move comes just two years after Brussels arm-twisted ministers into raising the standard rate to 20p in the pound. 

The European Commission’s recommendation of the UK’s national reform programme demands action to guarantee work or training for youngsters, more childcare and better transport. 

The document says: “In order to raise revenue, make greater use of the standard rate of VAT.” 

West Midlands MEP Nikki Sinclaire has tabled a formal question to the Commission demanding an explanation. 

But David Cameron will be under pressure to back the plan at a European Council meeting in Brussels later this month. 

Last night Chancellor George Osborne was said to be furious and has told aides there is “no chance” he will let it happen. 

A senior Treasury source said: “Our plans are based on spending reductions, not more tax rises.” 

But a European Commission spokesman said: “The UK needs to reduce debt without new taxes on labour, which hit jobs.”