Would an online tax help level the playing field for high street stores?
Shops across the country are finding it hard to compete with online firms.
One in every five pounds in the UK is now spent online — but what may be seen as a positive by shoppers has affected traditional stores nationwide.
Tesco boss Dave Lewis has called for a 2% tax on goods sold online to help halt the decline of high street stores.
Fareham councillor Seán Woodward believes such an online tax could be a suitable solution: “I am not philosophically supportive of taxing but companies who avoid paying their share should be taxed, provided that the money is used to help regenerate our high streets.”
And he warned changes in shopping patterns were having a detrimental effect on town centres: “People will often visit to compare and try goods then head home to order online.”
Steve Courtnell, owner of Pie & Vinyl in Southsea, believes an online tax would balance the competition between online firms and local shops.
“The summer has seen a bad trade for most small businesses, along with the uncertain future we face.
“People are keeping money in their pockets. It’s about the cheapest, not the best quality or experience.
“It’s much healthier to leave the house, interact with humans and have an actual shopping experience.”
