Parliamentary group seeks views on visitor levy as inquiry launched

The All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) for Hospitality and Tourism has launched an inquiry into the government’s proposed Overnight Visitor Levy Bill.

The government, which included the planned legislation in the King’s Speech last week, intends to give English mayors – and potentially other local authority leaders – the opportunity to introduce tourist taxes.

Businesses will take part in oral evidence sessions in parliament on May 20, June 9 and June 23, with the APPG also seeking written contributions.

Chris Webb, MP for Blackpool South and Chair of the APPG, said: “Hospitality and tourism are vital to our local economies and communities across the UK.

“They support jobs, investment and growth, so it is important that any proposals for a visitor levy are fully considered.

“This inquiry will ensure parliament hears directly from affected businesses and aims to understand the potential impacts on businesses, destinations and customers.”

Following the evidence sessions, the APPG will publish its findings from the inquiry and include recommendations for the government.

The evidence sessions will cover the principle of a levy, the potential impacts on the visitor economy as well as the design and implementation of a levy.