WUKA and M&S triumph in axing period pant tax
After WUKA and M&S rallied together to push the ‘Axe The Period Pants Tax’ campaign forward, it has been revealed that the 20% VAT tax on period pants will be abolished in the Autumn statement announcement tomorrow.
Yesterday, M&S and WUKA took the campaign to the streets of London in a final plea to the Chancellor to introduce new legislation to make period pants exempt from VAT. Three vans bearing the slogan “It’s a bum deal, Jeremy. Axe the Tax on period knickers" were sent in convoy around Westminster. M&S and WUKA's efforts have been joined by campaign co-signers, Sloggi, Triumph, Tesco and Sainsbury's.
The BBC has now reported that the campaign was a triumphant success and tomorrow we witness the Chancellor scrap VAT on period pants starting January 2024.
In 2017 Ruby Raut launched WUKA, which stands for 'wake up kick ass'. Her company introduced the UK’s first-ever period pants. As an advocate for menstrual equity Raut has led the Axe The Period Pants Tax campaign for five years.
Her dedication in pushing the campaign forward has resulted in a tangible policy change that will positively impact countless lives, marking a significant win for women’s health and small independent businesses.
Raut told TheIndustry.fashion: "Today marks a monumental victory in the fight for menstrual equity. Over five years of tireless advocacy, from launching WUKA in 2017 to navigating unexpected tax challenges, have led to this transformative moment. The rejection of our plea by HMRC only fueled our determination.
“We initiated four petitions, garnered over 63,000 signatures, rallied over 300 WUKA customers to pen letters to their MPs, and secured support from 70 MPs through Early Day Motions. With backing from 50 influential supporters, including major retailers, we triumphed. As reported by the BBC, this Wednesday will witness the discussion and removal of VAT on period pants starting January 2024."
"It is not just a win for WUKA; it is a win for every girl and woman affected by unjust taxation."
