A CAMPAIGNER is celebrating the scrapping of VAT on period pants after attracting 63,000 signatures to her petition on the subject.
Ruby Raut said the decision was a “testament to the collective strength of women” after it was announced in the latest Budget.
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Outlining his Autumn Statement, Chancellor Jeremy Hunt confirmed that sales tax will not be imposed on certain period-related items from January.
Ruby’s “period pants” have now been brought in line with other menstrual products like pads and tampons, which have been tax-free since 2021.
They were previously classified as “clothing”, meaning they were subject to a 20% levy, but they have now been redesignated.
Her five-year-long campaign paid off in the decision, which she considers a “triumph”.
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Ruby, from London, set up Wake Up Kick Ass (WUKA) in 2017 to help combat period poverty and promote sustainability.
The company’s website states: “Founded in 2017, WUKA is a female-led start-up, making the UK’s first ever reusable and leak-proof period wear.
“WUKA stands for Wake Up Kick Ass because we believe that nothing should hold you back on your period.
“We believe that periods should not cost the earth. Equality and social and environmental responsibility are at the heart of everything we do.”
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In 2018, Ruby began the Say Pants to the Tax campaign, which gained backing from brands like M&S as well as a number of MPs.
Their petition amassed a whopping 63,000 signatures and a hand-written letter demanding the change was delivered to Downing Street by a team of female business leaders, politicians and influences, including Made In Chelsea star Binky Felstead.
Speaking in the wake of the decision, Ruby said: “The removal of VAT on period pants starting January 2024 is a huge success and testament to the collective strength of women.
“I extend my deepest gratitude to every supporter who lent their voice to this campaign.
“It is not just a win for WUKA; it is a win for every girl and woman affected by unjust taxation.”
Alison Thewliss, one of the MPs at the heart of the campaign, added: “I am delighted to see that the UK Government has listened to the calls and is expected to abolish the tax on period pants.
“The #PantsToTheTax campaign has worked tirelessly to call for the abolishment of this tax, and it is pleasing to see common sense prevailing from the UK Government.
“The abolishment of the tax on period pants will support women and girls all over the country during this cost of living crisis, removing a financial barrier for so many during these difficult times.”
