Last week a number of companies, including MuscleTalk, formed the UK Specialist Sports Nutrition Alliance (UKSSNA) with the aim to stop the Government introducing VAT on sports drinks. We've already had temendous backing from the public, but there's still a lot to be done. The Alliance has commenced a number of measures including speaking to HMRC, involving the press and rallying support. But there are a few simple things which YOU can do to support us and help make an impact:
1) Sign the on-line petition now. This can be found here: http://www.petitionbuzz.com/petitions/vatonsportsdrinks
2) Urge others to spread the word about this campaign and get them to sign the petition. Please post the link to the petition on internet forums and social media sites like Facebook and Twitter and tell people down your gym or at work. You can even complete the form for other adults provided that you have their permission.
3) Write to your MP and urge others to do so too. You can find out who your MP is by looking at the list here (enter your postcode in the box in the top corner) and then you can adapt one of our sample letters below to express your views.
We only have until 4th May to make ourselves heard, but we do have a very real chance of turning this around if we unite and if we make a big enough noise. Don't just sit back and moan about this: do something while you can!
Check back in the Blog for updates on the UKSSNA and the VAT on sports drinks issue.
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Sample letter to MP 1:
Dear Mr(s) XXX
VAT: Sports Nutrition Drinks
I refer to the announcement at March 2012's Budget by the Chancellor where it was proposed that VAT will be added to sports nutrition drinks from October 2012.
There are a number of reasons why I feel this proposal is very bad move for the UK. These include:
1) The VAT increase will be passed onto the consumer at a time where financially most households are struggling.
2) This price rise will inevitably mean a reduction in demand for sports supplements; companies’ profits will be reduced leading to a reduction in tax revenue from industry which will significantly offset the proposed increased revenue from the VAT.
3) Don't you feel we should be encouraging sports and fitness at a time where cardiovascular and other diseases associated with a sedentary lifestyle are prevalent.
4) In 2012, of all years, where the sport-loving eyes of the world are on the UK, do we really want to be discouraging our own population to take up sport? The UK should be using the Olympics as a platform to encourage sport and exercise.
5) If milkshakes, drinking chocolate and Jaffa Cakes are to remain VAT-free then it seems ludicrous that healthy sports drinks should be taxed.
4) Encouraging a physical lifestyle to youths not only has physical positives, it helps keep them off the streets; the UK is at a time where youth crime is high; why discourage positives?
I would like my views on the proposal to levy VAT on sports nutrition drinks to be noted by both you, my MP, and the Treasury and I would be greatful for any comments on this issue. I also note the extrordinary short consultation period of just 6 weeks for this proposal; shouldn't there be a minimum of 12 weeks? What are the reasons for this?
Many thanks and kind regards.
Yours sincerely
Signed
Your name
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Sample letter to MP 2:
Dear Mr(s) XXX
VAT: Sports Nutrition Drinks
I refer to the March 2012's Budget by the Chancellor where it was proposed that VAT will be added to sports nutrition drinks from October 2012.
I wish to object strongly to this proposal because I feel this sends a very negative signal when we should be encouraging sports, fitness and a healthy lifestyle, especially in the year of the London Olympics. 20% is not a 'small increase' as the treasury claims! This will hit households hard at a time where financially things are tight. Surely the price rise will inevitably mean a reduction in sales and companies’ profits will be reduced leading to less tax revenue and loss of jobs which will have a negative impact on the economy.
Also, what seems exceptionally ludicrous is that milkshakes, drinking chocolate and Jaffa Cakes remain VAT-free! What sort of message does this send out?
Thanks and I look forward to your comments.
Yours sincerely
Signed
Your name
