Dedrater

I bought some electronic goods from America online, I was aware that they would be subject to import taxes and such like, but don't understand why I should have to pay the Government money for items I will be using for private use, we are supposed to be living in a "free" country but I am forced to pay massively higher prices on certain goods.

I did do a quick Google and found this nice graph that I am sure explains it all..



But does someone want to explain this in layman's terms or is it just another out of date tax like the TV licence?