Germany has signalled willingness to compromise in a conflict with France over reduced rates for VAT, with French president Jacques Chirac still pressing for lower taxes on restaurant meals.
The disagreement relates to an EU-wide scheme where member states can apply VAT rates as low as 5 percent instead of their national standard rates, on a list of "labour intensive" services.
The VAT holiday scheme ran out on 1 January this year, with EU leaders in December failing to reach ag...
Enjoy access to all articles and 25 years of archives, comment and gift articles. Become a member for as low as €1,75 per week.
Already a member? Login