Another trade group has spoken out against a proposal to allow a visitor levy across England.
This week, the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) published research claiming local levies could cost the tourism industry about £14.4 billion in reduced visitor spend.
The consultation period ended this week on whether local authorities should be given powers to impose tourism levies in England.
The WTTC said it could lead to a ‘slump in international visitor numbers’ and impact the domestic tourism industry.
“Billions of pounds will be wiped from the UK economy.”
The Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW) has also voiced concerns about it.
It will add to the struggles of many hospitality businesses it says.
Importantly, if it passes, it wants an established national model across the country to make in fair for all regions, so as to not confuse travellers and avoid unnecessary bureaucracy.
It called for a single national framework that should be applied consistently.
