Cross-Party Pressure for Hospitality Tax Cuts
A coalition of West Country MPs is leading a cross-party campaign demanding significant tax cuts for the hospitality industry ahead of the Autumn Budget. The All-Party Parliamentary Group for Hospitality and Tourism has written to the Chancellor calling for urgent VAT reduction from the current 20% rate and comprehensive business rates reform.
Who's Behind the Campaign
The joint letter boasts 27 signatories from across the political spectrum, including prominent West Country representatives. Among them are Dan Aldridge, Labour MP for Weston-super-Mare who co-chairs the group; Sarah Dyke, Liberal Democrat MP for Glastonbury and Somerton; and Caroline Voaden, Liberal Democrat MP for South Devon.
The MPs argue that the current tax system is actively stifling investment and job creation in a sector crucial to both local economies and the national growth strategy. They emphasised that businesses from rural pubs and seaside hotels to city-centre restaurants and visitor attractions are united in their message about the damaging impact of rising costs and high taxes.
Broader Implications for Recovery
The letter follows extensive consultation with hospitality businesses across the UK about the challenges they face. The group warned that pressures are likely to intensify with the forthcoming Employment Rights Bill, making tax reform even more critical.
Dan Aldridge stated: 'Rising costs, staff shortages, and unfair taxes are pushing too many businesses to the brink. Reducing VAT and fixing the broken business rates system would give them the breathing room they desperately need to thrive again.' He highlighted that hospitality forms the beating heart of Weston-super-Mare's economy, making support essential for the community's future.
The cross-party group insists that with the right policy framework, particularly on business rates, the hospitality and tourism sector can revitalise high streets, create jobs and get people back into work, playing a central role in the country's growth mission.
