CENTRAL Scotland MSP Graham Simpson MSP has welcomed the UK Government’s VAT cut for the hospitality and tourism sector, describing it as a “massive shot in the arm” for the industry.
The SNP Government have reopened Scotland’s hospitality sector later than south of the border, which Mr Simpson claims put jobs and livelihoods at risk.
But the MSP claims that now, with the cut in VAT to five per cent for restaurants, pubs, cafes, cinemas, zoos and attractions among others, the UK Government are giving Scotland’s tourism and hospitality sector hope that they will still salvage a summer season and jobs will be able to be protected for the long-term.
Mr Simpson said: “The tourism and hospitality sector are critically important for the economy in Central Scotland and this bold measure of a significant VAT cut from the Chancellor, is another major show of support from the UK Government for Scotland’s economy.
“The UK Government have stepped up to help them through the coming months.
“The cut to VAT to five per cent for our hospitality sector is a massive shot in the arm for our hospitality sector and will encourage greater spending power.
“We must recognise the huge value of our hospitality sector and visitors from all parts of the UK and across the world and promote Scotland’s hospitality as positively as possible.
“It is up to everyone to give their backing to the hospitality sector in Central Scotland, and I’ll certainly be doing that.”
