Removing tax from sanitary products 'pointless'
Summary
Jersey’s Social Security Minister Elaine Millar says removing the 5% Goods and Services Tax (GST) on sanitary products would be ineffective because the government already offers free period products through a scheme. Some campaigners argue that keeping the tax on these essential items is unfair and that removing it could help women save money.Key Facts
- Jersey is the only place in the British Isles that still charges GST on sanitary products.
- The government launched a free period product scheme in October 2022, spending over £500,000 in four years.
- The free scheme provides sanitary items at many locations like public toilets and government buildings.
- Removing GST from period products would save about 25 pence per £5 spent, while the free products save the full amount.
- Campaigners say taxing these products is unfair and want the GST removed to support women more.
- Minister Millar believes the free scheme addresses accessibility and affordability better than removing the tax.
- In 2022, politicians almost voted to remove the 5% GST on sanitary products but decided against it.
- Sanitary products are taxed, while other necessary items like medicines on prescription are exempt from GST.
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