Readers’ forum: VAT on services

My client offers event production services – where in return for a single fee he would provide an ‘event package’ (for occasions such as weddings or corporate events) which includes a venue (which he locates and hires) food (often the main element which he sources from local caterers) and entertainment (such as a DJ which he outsources).

The company is VAT registered and charges VAT on its fees at the standard rate to its UK customers both businesses and consumers for events taking place in the UK.

A booking was recently received from a business client based in Greece for an event to take place in London and my client queried whether VAT should be charged on the invoice.

My initial thought was that the proposed supply would not fall under the only exception from the ‘general rule’ regarding B2B supplies (namely supplies...