MP Urges Government to Scrap Tax Plans

There are real fears that from April 6th changes in the taxation rules affecting operators of furnished holiday lets will badly disadvantage their businesses to the extent that it could lead to closures.

Visitors staying in Teignbridge spend more than £114,000,000 a year and holiday lettings bring in a significant part of that income. Teign MP Mr Younger-Ross believes this sector and indeed all sectors of the industry should be better supported by the Government and has signed an early day motion calling for the taxation plans to be scrapped.

He said, "In less that two months the holiday season will get into full swing and the industry can expect nearly 3 million visitor nights in the region. Not only does the industry give a much needed boost to the economy but also much needed jobs with around 10% of employment supported by tourism. The Government should be helping, not hindering this important industry."

ENDS

EDM 735: That this House notes with concern the impending changes in the taxation rules affecting operators of furnished holiday lets; believes that the changes will significantly reduce the ability of operators to make major or even minor capital investments in their businesses; further believes that holiday lets are a vital part of the tourism industry bringing significant income to the economy of areas such as the Lake District and Yorkshire Dales and are wholly distinct from second homes that often remain empty for most of the year; and calls on the Government to scrap its plans to disadvantage the holiday let sector through changes in the tax rules and instead to give its support to this important sector of Britain's tourism industry.

Source: South West Tourism Value of Tourism 2007 report. (2008 is due out in the next few months)