§ Mr. SoleyTo ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what his policy is on the removal of value added tax on audio books used by the visually impaired; and if he will make a statement. [135456]
§ John HealeyThe Government recognises the importance of audio books to the visually impaired. Audiotapes and other specially designed equipment for visually impaired people are free from VAT. However, under long-standing formal agreements with our European partners, the UK is not permitted to extend the scope of this zero rate or to introduce any new ones.