NOS news•today, 2:38 p.m
Famous writers, athletes and actors are in The Hague to protest against the increase in VAT on some sports and culture activities and books. The reason is the discussion about the planned plans for today.
The groups will come together to stand against the government’s plans. This aims to increase VAT from 9 to 21 percent. Understandable, say people from different sectors.
For example, the writer Saskia Noort does not understand the plans at all. “The biggest problem is that our children are getting fatter, unhealthy and dumber. And these cuts are making them even fatter, even worse. That’s crazy. “
The protest started this morning with breakfast and a sports lesson led by Arie Boomsma. Later, writers and actors also came to The Hague:
Protest against VAT increase: ‘Reading is like breathing; you don’t charge VAT on that’
Noort says it’s a big problem for society. She fears that tax increases will lead to even fewer people reading and getting more and more unverified information from social media.
‘VAT to zero’
Writer Tommy Wieringa believes that the measure affects the wrong target group. “This rule aims to bully the elite a bit, but that’s stupid. The people who have the money will buy a book anyway. You’re sending the people who can’t pay in a corner.”
The author Ted van Lieshout argues for a tax reduction. “If you can’t read well, you can’t go through life independently. You always need someone to help you find the truth. VAT should be reduced to zero.”
Social action
Athletes also protested the cabinet’s plans in The Hague. Former cyclist Annemiek van Vleuten expects that fewer people will take up sport and exercise if it becomes more expensive.
She emphasizes that exercise is not only good for the body, but also has a social function. She refers to the pleasure that people get from exercising together. She hopes that the government will change the plans and increase taxes on things that are harmful to health instead of sports.
No responsible Secretary of State
In the end, the planned debate on the tax increase was shelved in part because of that the departure Secretary of State Idsinga, responsible minister could not be present. The abolition of the reduced VAT rate on books, culture and sports may be discussed on Friday. Then maybe Finance Minister Heinen will be there.
The opposition was not happy with the delay. The plans must be voted on next week, so time to consider them is running out, according to the parties.
2024-11-04 13:38:00
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