CUSTOMERS could soon be able to get cashback at shop tills without having to buy anything.
Treasury Minister John Glen said the proposal will prevent cash becoming obsolete amid the increasing use of card and mobile payments.
EU law prevents stores from offering cashback without purchases. But the Government is proposing to change that when the Brexit transition period ends.
The Covid pandemic has accelerated the decline in the use of notes and coins, with the limit on contactless payments raised from £30 to £45.
ATM use has fallen sharply as habits have changed.
But many still rely on cash for their everyday needs, and bank branch and ATM closures have fuelled concerns.
Announcing a six-week consultation, Mr Glen said yesterday: “We know cash is still really important for consumers and businesses — that’s why we promised to legislate to protect access for everyone who needs it.”
Last year, UK shoppers got £3.8billion of cashback at tills — the most common way of withdrawing after ATMs.
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