Save high street by taxing online sales at higher rate, Burnham urged

The Guardian reports: Exclusive: British Chambers of Commerce president tells PM to ‘level the playing field’ for struggling high streets • How Middleton’s revival could be grist to the mill for Britain’s struggling towns Andy Burnham has been urged by one of his most senior former advisers to tax internet sales at a higher rate than those in physical shops to help “level the playing field” for struggling high streets.

This business story centres on the United Kingdom. Names and organisations mentioned in the coverage include Andy Burnham, Burnham and British Chambers of Commerce.

Why it matters

Moves like this are watched by investors, employers and consumers because of their potential effect on markets and the wider economy.

Key details

Location

United Kingdom · Europe

Reported by

The Guardian

First reported

22 Oct 2026, 17:02 IST

Key names

Andy Burnham, Burnham, British Chambers of Commerce, PM

Section

Business

Sources

This is an independent summary. Read the full, original reporting from the publisher:

• The GuardianSave high street by taxing online sales at higher rate, Burnham urged 22 Oct, 17:02

Read the full story at The Guardian ↗

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