Conservatives voice its opposition to bed tax

The Conservative party this week has voiced its opposition to suggestions of a bed tax saying it rejects all extra levies on tourism.

Speaking at the UK Inbound parliamentary reception at the House of Commons last night (6 June), Hugo Swire, MP for East Devon and shadow secretary of state for culture, media and sport, said a tax on overnight accommodation would be a "devastating blow to UK tourism and catastrophic for rural economies".

He added: "The possibility of a bed tax under consultation by the Lyons review would be seriously detrimental to the tourism industry. It would deter inbound tourists and put jobs at risk.

"Hotels already pay business rates and contribute to local services and VAT is levied on hotel prices. Tourists also contribute to the wider local economy and tax base via their spending."

Swire's remarks follow last week's public rejection of a bed tax by the Liberal Democrats.

The Lyons Inquiry is currently considering imposing a bed tax as a money-raising tool for local governments. Sir Michael Lyons will make recommendations to the Government in December.

Caterer's campaign to Say No to Bed Tax is supported by the Tourism Alliance, the British Hospitality Association, Travelodge and Premier Travel Inn. We have also received more than 3,000 signed petitions from readers.

To add your voice to the campaign, go here to sign the petition.

For more news, comment and letters on bed tax go here >>

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By Alix Young

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