Ridiculous that tax-free shopping in airports is being stopped, albeit in broad terms I've never been persuaded that the saving is actually passed on.

I also don't imagine that the benefit to the treasury from removing the VAT refund mechanism is particularly great either. Indeed, those inclined to spend will just find an outlet mall in Paris or similar that does the job instead and the benefit to the treasury will be further depleted.

Surprised to see the alcohol allowances raised, although again unless you're looking at Smirnoff/Gordon's etc, the price you pay for spirits in duty free is usually the same as the high street. Still, Spanish Excise duty rates are lower than the UK so there is that...

Nothing really in here either to persuade BA to grab a slice of the action, I don't think. Not unless they want to sell spirits!
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