Rt Hon Sir Julian Smith KCB CBE MP has pressed the Government to pause plans for a overnight visitor levy, warning that small businesses across North Yorkshire are already under “massive pressure”.
Speaking during Oral Questions to the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, Julian highlighted the mounting burdens facing local firms - including National Insurance increases, the Workers’ Rights Bill, business rates and rising energy costs - and urged ministers to pause the 'Tourist Tax' before introducing further costs and in the interest of job creation for young people.
In response, Miatta Fahnbulleh MP, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, said the tourism levy is something mayors and local areas have campaigned for. She stated that the Government is consulting and would seek to strike a balance between allowing areas to raise revenue and ensuring businesses and SMEs can thrive.
Following the exchange, Julian said: “Small businesses in North Yorkshire are the backbone of our local economy and key to creating opportunities for young people.
“They are already dealing with rising costs from every direction, National Insurance increases, higher energy bills and regulatory pressures. The last thing they need right now is another tax. Tourism is vital to our area. We must make sure we are supporting, not penalising, the very businesses that attract visitors and sustain local jobs.
“I will continue to stand up for North Yorkshire’s businesses and push the Government to put growth and job creation first.”
