Letter: Book trade should reform, not complain
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Sir: The imposition of VAT on books (David Lodge, Comment, 2 November) could be offset by the abolition of the Net Book Agreement. Books in Britain are already more expensive than they need be, because of the implicit tariff we all have to pay to prevent bookshop price wars. I buy my books by mail- order from America. Despite a 20 per cent postal surcharge, they are still cheaper than the UK editions. Before the book trade bemoans price rises from a new tax, it should set its own house in order.
Yours sincerely,
DAVID E. FLAVELL
Peterlee, Co Durham
2 November
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments