James Evans MS is encouraging local businesses across Wales who stand to be affected by the incoming tourism tax to take part in the consultation which is now open for responses.
Cabinet Secretary for Finance Mark Drakeford MS recently introduced the Visitor Accommodation (Register and Levy) Etc. (Wales) Bill to the Senedd which, if passed, will allow local authorities to introduce a charge on people staying overnight in visitor accommodation across Wales – up to £1.25 a night.
The Senedd’s Finance Committee has launched a consultation on the bill and James is urging local businesses and individuals who will be affected by these changes to complete the consultation and make sure the Welsh Government firmly hear their thoughts. The consultation can be completed online with the deadline for written evidence being Friday 10th January 2025.
James Evans MS said:
“Ever since a tourism tax was first touted by Welsh Labour, I have been vocal in my opposition to this. We should be supporting our tourism sector, not taxing it! I believe this will have a detrimental impact on tourist numbers coming to stay overnight in Mid Wales and this could have disastrous consequences for our tourism attractions, local shops, pubs and restaurants. This, along with the ridiculously high 182-day occupancy ruling, has left many of them fearing these changes could drive them out of business.
“Ironically, most short stays in Wales are made by the Welsh public, so this is essentially a tax on Welsh people who choose to holiday in their own country! The new tourism levy could be the difference between people choosing to stay in England or Wales.
“I am urging every one of those local business who stands to be affected by these potentially damaging new rules to make their feelings clear by filling in the online consultation and send that message to the Welsh Government on how much of a detriment this could be to their livelihoods.”
