Commons Sense

Hansard-based summaries and metrics

Tourism Industry 2020-09-30

2020-09-30

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Response quality

Questions & Answers

Q1 Partial Answer
Laurence Robertson
▸ Context
The MP seeks details about recent discussions with Cabinet colleagues to support the tourism sector in Northern Ireland, highlighting financial benefits from UK Government schemes.
What recent discussions he has had with Cabinet colleagues on supporting the tourism industry in Northern Ireland. The lower VAT is helpful but will he discuss with Treasury colleagues the potential benefit of extending this rate further?
Robin Walker
The extension of the 15% VAT cut for hospitality and tourism to the end of March next year will provide vital support. The Government is monitoring the impact, but no specific new commitments are made beyond noting discussions with industry representatives.
▸ Assessment & feedback
Extension of lower VAT rate further not specifically addressed; only general monitoring mentioned without concrete plans.
Monitoring The Impact Continue To Monitor
Response accuracy
Q2 Partial Answer
Laurence Robertson
▸ Context
The MP follows up on support measures, focusing specifically on discussing with Treasury colleagues the potential benefit of extending a lower VAT rate.
I thank the Minister for that response. Indeed, the lower VAT is helpful, but will he discuss with Treasury colleagues the potential benefit to Northern Ireland of extending that lower rate even further?
Robin Walker
The extension of the 15% VAT cut to end of March will provide support. Government is monitoring measures' impact, but no specific commitment on further extension beyond this period.
▸ Assessment & feedback
No specific plan for extending lower VAT rate beyond current timeline mentioned.
Monitoring The Impact
Response accuracy
Q3 Partial Answer
Paul Girvan
▸ Context
The MP is concerned about the competitive pressure from the Republic of Ireland due to state aid and lower air passenger duty, affecting Northern Ireland's international trade.
In relation to Northern Ireland tourism, may I say that it has to compete not only on a world stage but with the market from the Republic of Ireland and its predatory actions? What can be done in relation to using APD as a tool to help our tourism industry?
Robin Walker
The Treasury is looking into what can be done on APD front, taking on board views of Northern Ireland businesses. Competitive pressure recognised.
▸ Assessment & feedback
No specific measures announced regarding using APD as a tool to support tourism.
Treasury Is Looking Into What Can Be Done
Response accuracy