Keira's tax shock

Film

13:30 05 September 2006

Keira Knightley faces a huge tax bill over a goodie bag.

The 'Pirates of the Caribbean' actress was stunned to realise she would have to pay a £2,000 VAT bill after being handed a bag of freebies worth £6,000 at a charity dinner.

The Silver Spoon Hollywood Buffet gives guests free gifts in return for their endorsement.

The bag contained diamond earrings worth £4,000, Franco Sarto shoes and a Gorjana necklace. There was also a Magaschoni cashmere jumper, a designer watch, Spanx underwear, a Cusp bikini, Cover Mineral make-up and Plank yoga mats.

A source told Britain's Daily Star newspaper: "Keira had no idea new US tax laws mean American-based celebrities have to pay tax on free gifts. That's why the Oscars committee are axing goodie bags."

The 21-year-old star gladly paid the £12 entrance fee to the Los Angeles event, all of which goes to charity.

However, she is fuming that she will have to pay out a fortune for any freebies worth more than £145 when she returns home to the UK.

The source added: "Keira was not impressed. She took the bag to be polite. You don't expect to be charged for a freebie. She wouldn't mind if it's going to charity, but it's not."

(C) BANG Media International