Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask Mr Chancellor of the Exchequer, if he will estimate the effects of VAT at 20 per cent on visitor accommodation and attractions on the cost of an average family holiday in the UK; what assessment he has made of the contribution of tourism in coastal towns to the UK economy; and if he will make a statement.

No estimate has been made of the effects of VAT.

The Government recognises that tourism is vital for many coastal towns and an important part of the UK visitor economy. The 2013 Great Britain Tourism Survey estimated that day and overnight visits by British residents to the seaside brought £9.5bn of spending to coastal areas in 2013. Coastal towns also benefit from inbound visits. 2013 was a record year with 33m visits, resulting in £21bn of spend in the UK.