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Government to bring in iPod tax?

Apple's new 5th Generation iPod

Apple's new 5th Generation iPod

Taxes on CDs and computers to pay for TV programmes

The UK government is considering putting a tax on iPods, blank CDs and freeview boxes to pay for public service programmes on ITV and Channel 4.

Internet subscriptions and computers could also be included in the new scheme to raise money for news, documentaries and children's programmes on the two channels, The Daily Telegraph has reported.

Ofcom, who regulate TV and radio services in Britain, came up with the idea in their report about funding public service programmes on ITV and Channel 4.

But Liberal Democrat spokesman for culture, media and sport Don Foster told The Telegraph that music fans wouldn’t be pleased.

He said: "Other countries have introduced industry levies but I don't think it is the most palatable option on the table."

Comments (5)

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hornets23 

Sep 26, 2008

this is allmost as stupid as having glasvegas on the cover twice

setthenightonfire 

Sep 28, 2008

Don Foster - 'music fans won't be pleased.' No shit Don.

deanoshoes 

Sep 28, 2008

Ipod riots start here. . . what twaddle

Corinne 

Sep 28, 2008

This is ridiculous. What have iPods and blank CD's got to do with TV programmes on ITV and Channel 4?!

a l a n c 

Sep 30, 2008

There's already a secret "tax" on blank CDs, in that CD manufacturers give a cut of the money from CD sales to the major record companies. I can't remember where I heard this conspiracy theory, but it was probably on the internet or something, so it must be true. :-D

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