The French culture minister has said that a proposed 1% tax on smartphones and similar technology could go towards helping music retailers - as 26 Virgin Megastore shops were closed in the country a fortnight ago following bankruptcy filings in January.

When discussing the new potential duty on products that may include tablets, e-readers and computers, Aurelie Filippetti said that the fee "will be paid at the time of purchase" and would be "painless for the consumer".

“It could lead ...