Tourist Chief Fires Volley Ahead Of Autumn Budget

As the Autumn budget looms, a leading UK travel chief has fired a warning volley in the direction of Chancellor Rachel Reeves’ direction, urging her to maintain the 75% business rates relief so as not to handicap ‘recovering’ companies.

The Chancellor’s first Budget will be delivered on 30th October but, earlier this month, Reeves told the BBC it would involve “difficult decisions.”

However, Paul Harper, Commercial Director at UK family-owned coach holiday provider, Daish’s, said: “As the tourism and hospitality sector continues its recovery from the challenges of recent years, it is crucial that the autumn 2024 budget provides targeted support to ensure sustained growth and long-term resilience.

“One of the most impactful measures for our sector has been the 75% business rates discount.

"Extending this discount would be a vital step towards easing the financial burden on businesses, allowing us to reinvest in our operations, retain and create jobs, and enhance the overall visitor experience.”

He said that tourism and hospitality were cornerstones of the UK economy, particularly in holiday destinations such as Scarborough where they provided essential employment and were key to driving the local economy.

“Our sector is still navigating a complex recovery, and the financial pressures caused by rising energy costs and inflation are making it increasingly difficult.

"The extension of business rates relief has been a lifeline for many businesses and continuing this relief would provide much-needed stability.”

Each year, the Chancellor of the Exchequer - who is in charge of the government's finances - makes a Budget statement to MPs in the House of Commons, indicating the tax changes that will follow in the year ahead.

Various lobbying groups and organisations actively make their voices heard, ahead of the Chancellor’s announcements, in the hope of influencing the content of her speech.