Rt Hon Sir Julian Smith KCB CBE MP has reiterated his call for the Government to pause its plans for a Visitor Levy, the so-called ‘Tourist Tax’, warning that North Yorkshire business face being ‘clobbered’ by the charge.
Speaking during a Westminster Hall debate, Julian warned that entrepreneurs in the tourism industry are ‘on their knees’ from the combined impact of post-Covid issues, National Insurance, business rates and other factors. Julian said the plans should be stopped until these businesses are back on their feet and investing again.
Further, Julian noted that rural North Yorkshire is more likely to lose out from any income from a levy as York is prioritised by the Mayor.
Speaking after the debate, Julian said: “Tourism is a cornerstone of the North Yorkshire economy and now is not the time to add another burden to this world-class local sector.
“I will continue to push for the Government, and Mayor of York and North Yorkshire, to change course and take steps that allow these businesses to invest and recruit, without having to account for another cost on their bottom line.”
