An Post and VAT on books

Waiting for a refund

Sir, – I have recently been forced, by An Post, to pay 23 per cent VAT on books from the UK. In both cases the customs declaration described the contents as “book”, which description An Post accepted on its online payment page. The correct VAT rate for books is 0 per cent. I found myself in a similar position this time last year and appealed the decision whereupon An Post agreed, in writing, to a refund of charges. A year later I still await the refund. – Yours, etc,

BRIAN HODKINSON,

Limerick.