MONMOUTH MP David Davies has written to the Chancellor George Osborne asking him to examine claims by sandwich chain Subway that VAT on toasted sandwiches is “unfair”.
During a visit to the Abergavenny Subway store on Frogmore Street, Mr Davies heard how the fast food franchise is leading the “toast the tax” campaign to get toasted sandwiches the same VAT status as pasties.
Mr Davies met with store owner Chris Scott and Subway’s Area Development Agent Cheryl Hensley to discuss concerns that the sandwich shop industry has been unfairly penalised following a government u-turn on the so-called pasty tax.
Subway says it is wrong the government reversed its plans to impose a new 20 per cent tax on takeaway snacks such as pasties and pies but left it on hot sandwiches.
Mr Davies said: “The argument being made is that the regulations as they stand are discriminatory and Subway is merely asking for a level playing field on tax.
“There is clearly a need to ensure the VAT rules on warm food are fair to all high street outlets and this is something which I have promised to write to the Chancellor about.”
A regular visitor to Subway over the years, Mr Davies also congratulated the chain on its commitment to a long term consumer health programme.
Menu boards featuring calorie values are displayed in all Subway stores, alongside large posters with detailed nutritional information.
Subway is a partner of the UK government’s Public Health Responsibility Deal, which aims to improve the nation’s health, and has endorsed all five pledges on calorie labelling, salt reduction, artificial trans-fats removal, calorie reduction and increasing consumption of fruit and vegetables.
“Fast food outlets are often criticised but they can offer a healthy snack at good value for money,” said Mr Davies.
“I discovered Subway in the US in the late 1980s. I ate there a lot and I remember wishing there were some branches in Wales.
“It was a pleasure to visit the store in Abergavenny and I enjoyed trying my hand at making a Sub, which is not as easy as it looks!”
Franchisee Chris Scott added: “Having never met an MP before, I was not quite sure what to expect but it was really nice to meet someone who is in touch with what is happening in his constituency.
“David Davies took the time to listen to my concerns and took a real interest in learning more about my business.”