Re: Computer tax set to replace TV licence fee ( Legal?)

On Sun, 02 Jul 2006 19:37:40 GMT, "Amanda Angelika"
<manic_mandy@xxxxxxxxxxx> wrote:

Computer tax set to replace TV licence fee
http://www.timesonline.co.uk/article/0,,2-1508650,00.html


A very stupid headline, since that was only one of several options
that *might* be looked at by 2017.


My question is would a taxation on computers and/or Internet access
contravene article 10 of the European convention on Human rights?


No. Of course not.

Computers and internet access are already taxed (VAT).


Article 10 - Freedom of expression
1. Everyone has the right to freedom of expression. This right shall include
freedom to hold opinions and to receive and impart information and ideas
without interference by public authority and regardless of frontiers.

Whilst I understand this act has not been used successfully in the abolition
of the Licence in regard to Television sets because European law also allows
member states to licence broadcasting, television or cinema enterprises.
Surely when it comes to computers and Internet access, whilst both may be
used to consume entertainment and limited broadcast material are primarily
used as a means of interactive communication where the user may in fact
express and create more than he or she may actually consume.

Surely any taxation of such a medium would in effect constitute a tax of
free expression and would fundamentally contravene European human rights
legislation as well as being completely against the Interests of democracy
in the UK whether real or illusionary.

Nope.

There is nothing in Article 10 which states that "freedom of
expression" must be "free of charge".

Nor that specific media for expressing opinion in must be free.
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Alex Heney, Global Villager
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