French Government to Tax Smartphone Sales

The French Government has proposed a small cultural levy on sales of all smart devices – including games consoles and ereaders – in order to ensure the longevity of France’s entertainment industry.

The Ministry of Culture and Communications 500-page report, which included 80 different proposals, has said however that it does not support a so-called ‘Google tax’ proposed by some newspapers and music producers as compensation for being referenced by the search engine.

The body has also proposed repealing the penalty of internet suspension and a maximum fine of €1500 for internet pirates imposed under the previous administration. It could reduce the sum payable to just €60.

On-demand releases of films screened at the cinema could also be speeded up under the plans to “strengthen the legal supply”.