VAT rate for tourism industry in the UK a barrier for holidaymakers

UK tourism industry suffers from high costs and heavy tax burden.

Visit Cornwall is supporting calls for a reduction on VAT from 20 percent to 5 percent for the tourism industry, as the current rate is hurting local businesses by discouraging holidaymakers to take breaks in the UK.

Malcolm Bell, head of Visit Cornwall, said that research by Deloitte shows that a cut to 5 per cent will generate 79,000 jobs and contribute an additional £2.6 billion to the Exchequer over the next decade. While it is unlikely in this era of austerity that the calls will be heeded, it is to be hoped that thought will be given to the issue when the economy permits.

To read the full article, click here (VAT is what makes our country an expensive place to enjoy a holiday, West Briton)