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Explained in plain English

What is VAT?

VAT, or Value Added Tax, is a consumption tax added to most goods and services sold in the UK. It's included in the price you pay, and businesses then pass it on to the government. Jessica Zbinden-Webster's petition argues that the 20% VAT on sunscreen makes it too costly, especially for families, hindering its use as a preventative health measure.

Stories that explain this

Woman with skin cancer to petition for VAT cut on sunscreen VAT cut means charging electric cars at home could cost 1.52p per mile Burnham's cost of living plans face 5.1% borrowing spike

Related explainers

How VAT cuts work Why do borrowing costs spike? Why are bus fares capped? How does conflict affect the UK? What is the cost-of-living crisis? Your electric car savings Global energy price impact What is government borrowing?

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