A new campaign has been launched with a bid to cut VAT on tourism in the UK.
The Cut Tourism VAT scheme is led by the British Hospitality Association, British Association of Leisure Parks, Piers and Attractions, Bourne Leisure Group and Merlin Entertainments Group and wants tourism VAT to drop from 20% to 5% similar to other EU nations.
The UK is the only country out of 14 EU countries that applies the full VAT on theme park admissions and one in nine that puts the full rate on cultural attractions.
Explaining the impact of the campaign, if successful, Graham Wason, chairman of the Cut Tourism VAT said: “Victory for this regional Campaign would mean British families being able to enjoy more holidays and breaks in their own country. It would also mean greater tourism spend, investment and jobs in communities where tourism is a key part of the local economy.”
Ufi Ibrahim, chief executive of the British Hospitality Association (BHA) said the VAT level makes it difficult for tourism businesses to compete with overseas destinations.
“Cutting tourism VAT in the UK to 5% can benefit everyone, from the average Brit holidaying at home or keeping their children entertained in the school holidays; to local hotels, B&Bs and restaurants trying to survive; to local jobseekers looking for work,” she added.
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