Welsh Tourism Industry 2025-03-12
2025-03-12
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP noted that the UK tourism and hospitality sector is one of the most heavily taxed in Europe. He referenced his constituency's reliance on tourism.
The tourism and hospitality sector in the UK is one of the most heavily taxed in Europe. Will the Secretary of State press the Chancellor to reduce the tax burden in this area to help drive local economies that rely on tourism in Wales and in constituencies such as mine on the Isle of Wight?
I would gently remind the hon. Gentleman that his party in government put the highest tax burden in 70 years on the people and businesses of this country, leaving a £22 billion black hole that we have had to try to sort out.
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Assessment & feedback
The Secretary did not provide a commitment to push for reducing taxes but instead criticised the previous government's tax policy.
Criticising Previous Government
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP mentioned that more than 40 countries have introduced visitor levies, citing examples like Greece and Amsterdam. He highlighted the importance of tourism in his constituency.
More than 40 countries and holiday destinations around the world have introduced a form of visitor levy, including Greece, Amsterdam, Barcelona and California. What work is the Secretary of State doing with the Welsh Government to support our vital tourism industry?
My hon. Friend has one of the most beautiful constituencies in Wales, and I know that tourism is critical to his local economy. Indeed, tourism probably remains the only way to see a Conservative MP in Wales after the general election. The visitor levy is set to raise up to £33 million for the tourism sector across Wales.
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Assessment & feedback
The Secretary mentioned the visitor levy but did not provide specific details on work being done with the Welsh Government.
Criticising Opposition
Response accuracy