In Britain, it has two levels, full, which is 17.5%, and half-rate. Some products, such as books and baby goods, pay no VAT at all. Foreign visitors can claim back VAT from the authorities once they leave Europe.
For a fine guide to the new Europe, have a look at The United States of Europe, by T.R.Reid, Penguin Press.
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For a fine guide to the new Europe, have a look at The United States of Europe, by T.R.Reid, Penguin Press.