VAT reduced on condoms A long standing campaign by organisations including Terrence Higgins Trust, The National Union of Students, Superdrug and recently backed in an Early Day Motion by 69 MPs has proved successful as Gordon Brown, in his recent budget, confirmed that VAT on condoms and other contraceptives is to be cut from the standard 17.5% to a new rate of 5%. While most contraceptives can be obtained for free on the National Health Service, condoms and the over-the-counter emergency contraceptive pills both carry a standard VAT charge when purchased. The move recognises a long-held argument that contraceptives should be classed as ‘essential health items’. “NAT welcomes the decision to reduce VAT on condoms. It is clear that the price of condoms can be a disincentive for people to practice safer sex, and with over 7,000 new HIV infections last year, this decision will help in HIV prevention efforts.” Said Deborah Jack, chief executive of the National AIDS Trust, who also added: "75% of HIV infections in the UK are among gay and bisexual men and a survey has shown that a quarter of gay men only use free condoms. Therefore we hope that the Government will follow the reduction in VAT with greater investment in free condom schemes to reduce the rising HIV rate in the UK." Her comments were echoed by Anne Wyman, chief executive of the Family Planning Association. “This move will particularly benefit lower income groups, for whom
cost may be a key factor in using these methods.” Free condoms and lube along with information and advice
are available from NLGBA.
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