The Welsh Labour Government and Plaid Cymru’s policies have severely impacted the tourism and hospitality industry. The introduction of the 182-day threshold, proposed increases to business rates, and rising food and energy costs have forced some historic businesses to close.
Janet Finch-Saunders, Member of the Welsh Parliament for Aberconwy and a strong advocate for the tourism sector, has called on the Welsh Government to reverse these policies and better support the industry.
Janet commented:
“Both the UK and Welsh Labour Governments, supported by Plaid Cymru through their Co-operation Agreement, have introduced measures that are damaging our vital tourism and hospitality sector. This industry is the backbone of the Welsh economy and central to Aberconwy.
“I regularly hear from constituents and stakeholders about the impact on their businesses and their concerns about what lies ahead. In many parts of Wales, reaching the 182-day threshold is extremely difficult due to factors such as location, weather, and competition. This raises the risk of higher council tax charges on their properties.
“Even those who meet the threshold report delays in receiving the business rates relief owed to them, adding further financial strain on accommodation providers.
“With councils set to decide whether to introduce the Visitor Levy, it is essential they consider the wider impact on businesses and how this could affect competitiveness with England and other parts of Wales that do not apply the tax.
“My Welsh Conservative colleagues and I have consistently opposed these measures introduced by Labour and Plaid Cymru. That is why we have pledged to scrap the tourism tax and reduce the 182-day rule to 105 days, as called for by the sector.
“We cannot allow any more hardworking businesses to close.”
ENDS
Photo: Janet Finch-Saunders MS/AS
