Sex tax is unfair
Superdrug has won the first round in its fight to reduce VAT on condoms. UK consumers pay£7 million in VAT on condoms each year and Superdrug argues that the Government saves about£2.5 billion a year from the use of condoms because they prevent STIs and unwanted pregnancies.

VAT minister Dawn Primarolo has responded to a nationwide campaign, which has been led by the health and beauty retailer since May 2005. So far, 20,000 customers have signed the Sex Tax Petition in store and on line and 69 MPs have signed an Early Day Motion in support of the campaign. The retailer has also slashed 17.5 per cent from the price of its own-label condoms permanently.

Primarolo said: 'I can assure you that the VAT treatment of condoms remains under consideration and I am fully aware of the importance that has been attached to this issue.'

Superdrug director of healthcare Clive Daley said: 'On budget day [March 22] we will be listening carefully to the Chancellor and if the VAT levied on condoms is not reduced to 5 per cent we will be continuing our campaign.'

Topics