‘This is simply another tax on working families and British businesses,’ said Reform UK’s Richard Tice as he tore apart the controversial plans.
Richard Tice has hit out the ‘holiday tax’ plans for England (Image: Getty)
Deputy leader of Reform UK Richard Tice has slammed Rachel Reeves’ ‘holiday tax’ plans, claiming it is “penalising Brits for taking a holiday”. His comments come as hospitality and leisure bosses warn the public would face an extra £100 or more on the cost of a fortnight’s holiday in England if the Government pushes ahead with plans to allow the levy.
Mr Tice, who is MP for Boston and Skegness where there is a significant holiday industry, insisted Labour should instead be focusing on economic growth. He said: “This is simply another tax on working families and British businesses at a time when people already face mounting pressures on their household budgets. Travelling within your own country should not come with another hidden charge tacked on at the end of your holiday.”
Rachel Reeves confirmed the visitor levy move in November’s Budget (Image: Getty)
Mr Tice, who was speaking to The Sun, added: “The Government should focus on economic growth rather than penalising Brits for taking a holiday.”
Around 200 bosses of leading UK accommodation firms – including Butlin’s, Hilton and Travelodge – have told the Chancellor in a letter that “holidays are for relaxing, not taxing”.
They warned that the plans would hit families hard, put jobs at risk and drain money from local communities.
The letter from industry bosses, coordinated by the UKHospitality trade body, urged the Government to scrap plans for a visitor levy in England as a result.
Ms Reeves confirmed in November’s Budget that English regional mayors will have the powers to introduce visitor levies on overnight stays in hotels, Airbnbs and holiday lets.
The plans, which mirror similar devolved moves in Scotland and Wales, are designed to give local mayors more funds to invest in local infrastructure and transport.
However, industry bosses warned: “For millions of hardworking families, a UK holiday is their chance to switch off and spend quality time together.
“For many, this tax will make their holiday unaffordable, meaning families will shorten trips, forgo a break altogether, reduce their spending with pubs, restaurants, events, leisure activities and local attractions, or travel overseas – spending their money and creating jobs elsewhere.”
A Government spokesman said: “Tourists travel from near and far to visit England’s brilliant cities and regions.
“We’re giving our mayors powers to harness this and put more money into local priorities, so they can keep driving growth and investment in the economy, supporting thriving communities.
“We expect any new charges to be modest and in line with other countries, and it is for mayors to consider the right level for their area.”
