A BOSS at the supermarket chain Iceland, which has multiple stores across Oldham, is calling for online sales to be taxed.

Richard Walker, managing director of the frozen retailer, is urging for an overhaul of “outdated and Victorian” business rates.

The retail boss slammed the current business rates regime which will restart, with discounts for some high street businesses, from the start of July.

He said: “I think we need a digital sales tax and I say that with a business with a really strong online business.

“You need to completely change business rates as they are, but there also has to be some form of rebalancing with online because otherwise we will be killing off the high street as it is.”

Iceland has delivered strong growth over the past year after rapidly expanding its online delivery business, with the company now operating more delivery slots each week than Ocado.

The company has also benefited from consumer interest in sustainability issues in recent years.

Mr Walker’s demands come after Iceland faced a backlash over its decision take business rates relief for the past financial year, despite continuing to trade as an essential retailer throughout lockdown.

It has since been announced that Iceland will not be taking extended tax relief, announced by the Government in February.