Eurocrats decide cameras are video recorders

DIGITAL CAMERAS with a video function are to be classed as camcorders if Euro customs men have their way.

The change will mean that digital cameras will be hit with an import tax of at least five per cent - rising to 12.5 per cent if they can record from external sources.

And, since no-one makes digital cameras in Europe, the price of pretty much all of them - since most are capable of snatching at least a few consecutive video frames - could be set to rise.

Camera buffs reckon the Eurocrats are barking up the wrong tree and argue that multi-function devices should - under the current regulations - be classified by their primary function.

But the unelected law makers will be salivating over the extra revenues they can then squander on keeping French farmers in Cognac and cheese. µ