Forum Topic

Vive LA France

Looks like France might be about to take the heat off the UK as their new technology and internet corporate revenue tax seems to be upsetting Mr Trump. Another reason to remain in the EU?https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-48945828

Michael Ixer ● 2681d9 Comments

"The digital services tax that France and other European countries are pursuing is clearly protectionist and unfairly targets American companies in a way that will cost US jobs and harm American workers," claim two Republicans in the report. I think this gives a pretty clear indication of the kind of thing we'd face if we leave the EU and have to sign up to a trade agreement with the USA. Wouldn't exactly be taking back control, would it?

Richard Carter ● 2680d

Just France doing this, not the EU. The, like us, always had full control over taxation policy, a few VAT rules apart.

Jonathan Callaway ● 2680d

It would be so much easier I'm sure if we did this together as a group - or after discussion as a group.  We would be far more likely to succeed.

Philippa Bond ● 2680d

Indeed Philippa - but you'll never convince Brexiteers of this. Well done France, indeed. Similarly, on a local issue, if there was a problem with a bridge over the Seine that had to be closed for repairs it would be done without different arrondisements arguing over who should pay.  But then France is  run on more socialist lines than capitalist UK! I'll get my hat and run .... ;-)

Lucille Grant ● 2680d

His [Trump's] trade representative said the US was "very concerned" that the tax "unfairly targets American companies".Well, there are always two sides to the story and every country in the world -nearly all- could express their concern that the US companies unfairly damage their economies by plundering monies that, by their laws, are liable to tax.  Unfortunately, none of these "stances" are conducive to harmonious relations.  But, if it America first, then each country has the right to do the same.

Ivonne Holliday ● 2680d

US business practices and regulation seem to have only the interest of the corporations rather than consumers in mind. It's good to see the EU aircraft regulator taking a lead in the 737 Max case. Yet another reason why the UK should stick with the EU rather than cosy up to the current corrupt US regime?https://samchui.com/2019/07/10/easa-identifies-737-max-autopilot-fault/

Michael Ixer ● 2680d

As this thread is regarding digital companies, it's worth pointing out that Internet Neutrality in the UK is protected by the EU.  This article helps explain what that means.https://www.huffingtonpost.co.uk/entry/net-neutrality-will-it-affect-us-in-the-uk_uk_5a33a67be4b0ff955ad1d6a6

Clare Noeken ● 2680d

Good point Clare, and, firstly, we know the Trump administration view on net neutrality; secondly, I consider embedded software in products to be a digital issue ...

Michael Ixer ● 2680d

And, final point. Many in the US, including the judiciary, are appalled by Trump's actions - remember, he didn't actually win the popular vote? The latest in a line of judgements to force him to follow the Constitution ...https://www.cnn.com/2019/07/09/politics/twitter-trump-appeals-court/index.html

Michael Ixer ● 2680d