Responding to news that the Chancellor intends to scrap VAT on sanitary products in the forthcoming budget, Liberal Democrat spokesperson for Women and Equalities, Christine Jardine, said: “No one should miss out on their education because they can’t afford essential sanitary products. That’s why Liberal Democrats have long campaigned to make sure that every woman and girl can access these basic supplies.
“The tampon tax is outdated and discriminatory. Having a period is not a luxury and should never be treated as such. Scrapping the tax is long-overdue, welcome news.
“But there’s more to be done. Liberal Democrats are calling on the Tory government to extend the provision of free sanitary products to other public spaces, like libraries and health centres.
“The UK must also play a leading role in eradicating period poverty wherever it exists. That is why, for International Women’s Day, Liberal Democrat MP Wendy Chamberlain has introduced legislation to ensure that the government report on the use of UK aid to end period poverty globally.”