Fiona Campbell MBE, Chief Executive of the Association of Scotland’s Self-Caterers and Vice Chair of Scottish Tourism Alliance Policy Group,has commented on the publication of the Scottish Government’s Visitor Levy (Amendment) Bill, which will make significant changes to the tourist tax.
She said:
“The Association of Scotland’s Self-Caterers warmly welcomes the introduction of the Scottish Government’s Visitor Levy (Amendment) Bill. The commitment to introduce much-needed legislative changes in the current parliamentary timetable is an important recognition of the urgency of the situation and the continuing complexities that a percentage-based model presents for Scotland’s valuable accommodation sector.
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If passed, this legislation will give local councils greater flexibility and choice by allowing them to set the levy as a fixed amount. This is a pragmatic change that industry has pushed hard for, and it also reflects a clear cross-party desire to ensure the visitor levy is fit for purpose, proportionate and workable in practice. We are heartened that the Scottish Government has listened to consistent, evidence-based concerns.
We look forward to working constructively with the government and MSPs from all parties as the Bill progresses, to help deliver a levy that boosts local tourism investment in those areas that choose to take it forward, while supporting Scotland’s vital tourism economy.
Given that change is coming, the sector would encourage local authorities, including those who have already formally consulted on a percentage-based levy, to seriously consider opting for a simpler, more workable fixed amount charge, which will have a less damaging impact on the accommodation businesses that are the lifeblood of our local communities.”
