OUTRAGE erupted after it was announced that migrant hotels would be exempt from plans to bring in a tourist tax.
Prime Minister Andy Burnham has announced plans to let England’s 14 regional mayors impose an uncapped levy on overnight stays.
Hard-working families could be priced out of a relaxing staycation if the tourist tax comes in Credit: Alamy
Andy Burnham announced plans to bring in a tourist tax earlier this week Credit: Shutterstock Editorial
It’s expected the move will hit hard-working families staying in hotels, B&Bs and holiday lets.
However, the Department for Housing, Communities and Local Government said taxpayer funded asylum hotels will not be subject to the tax.
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Trade group UKHospitality estimated the tax would add £99 to a week’s trip to London and £198 to the cost of a family summer holiday.
Meanwhile, school trips could also be subject to the levy unless local leaders choose to exempt accommodation used for “educational purposes”.
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Business travellers would also be caught by the charge.
The Jattvibe has been campaigning to Stop The Holiday Tax, warning it risks pricing hard-working families out of precious staycations.
The Conservatives have slammed the decision as “outrageous” as officials said the tax will hit hard-working families most.
Sources in the hospitality industry added that this may encourage more hotels to offer themselves up for asylum seekers rather than holidaymakers.
Chris Philp, the shadow home secretary, said: “It is utterly outrageous that families saving up for a break and struggling hospitality businesses will be hit with another tax, while hotels being used to accommodate illegal immigrants are exempt.
“British taxpayers should not be treated as a cash machine as asylum hotels get special treatment.
“Labour must explain why they think ordinary families should pay this tax but the asylum system should not. The answer is not another stealth tax on British families.
“We need to deport all illegal immigrants which would allow us to end the farcical hotel use entirely.”
So what do you think, is it wrong to allow migrant hotels to be exempt from the tourist tax? Have your say in our exclusive poll and share your thoughts below for the chance to win a £100 voucher.
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