Last updated on March 12th, 2024 at 11:04 pm
The Hygiene Bank has partnered with Who Gives a Crap, freedom 4girls and Bloody Good Period to urge the Government to scrap the ‘roll tax’ on toilet paper.
Did you know that toilet paper is considered a luxury item -subject to an extra 20% VAT, while things like helicopters are tax-free? New research from eco-friendly toilet paper brand Who Gives A Crap reveals that 70% of the British public is unaware that VAT is charged on toilet roll, whilst caviar, helicopters, and marshmallow teacakes are all considered essentials, and are therefore VAT-free.
We believe this is unacceptable and that everyone should have access to basic hygiene products like toilet paper, shampoo or nappies. This is why we are calling on Chancellor of the Exchequer Jeremy Hunt to scrap the ‘Roll Tax’ in the upcoming Spring Budget, with almost nine in ten (88%) Brits backing the move.
Ruth Brock, CEO at The Hygiene Bank said “We know that people are, in increasing numbers, struggling to afford essential hygiene products due to the pressure of the cost-of-living crisis. It’s crucial that we remove VAT from toilet rolls to help bring prices down and support those facing hygiene poverty.”
By scrapping the Roll Tax, an average UK household would be saving £8.74, which is equivalent to:
• 3.2 days of petrol and diesel
• 2.5 days of household gas and electricity
• 1 month of fresh milk
• Over 2 weeks of fresh fruit and vegetables
You can join the public petition with Change.org to help garner public support for scrapping the ‘roll tax’.
