French internet & games consoles tax proposal

The French Senate last month proposed introducing a €9 annual tax on subscribers to internet services. This tax would be collected by the major internet service providers, which is primarily the state-owned Orange.

It also wants to charge a 2% levy on the sales of TVs and games consoles.

The tax would only be temporary, potentially lasting until on 2022 when new EU-wide proposals may be brought forward.

The tax proposal is aimed at raising funds to help invest in internet-access for poorer elements of society.