John
There is no extra VAT to pay if you buy from the EU (at least while we are in it!), which is why if you look at some of the German & European model shops/online retailers, some items can be, but are not always, cheaper than UK. Since many of us buy online rather than from a local model shop (unless there is one near you), it makes no difference where you order it from in the EU.
On another matter, but related, I see that Al's Hobbies is now offering a UK service department for Spektrum r/c gear which is handy, since after the closure of Horizon hobbies (UK) at Harlow, servicing could only be done in Germany.
Al's also list numerous spares as well.
Paul.