- The UK government is considering introducing charges for international tourists visiting national museums to boost funding for the cultural sector.
- This proposal follows a review by Baroness Margaret Hodge, which recommended limiting free entry at institutions like the British Museum and National Gallery.
- The plan would require digital IDs to distinguish between domestic and international visitors, a system that does not currently exist.
- Critics, such as the Cultural Policy Unit, warn that charges could deter international tourism and potentially impact British citizens due to the digital ID requirement, suggesting a hotel levy as an alternative.
- Research by the Art Fund indicates that 72 per cent of the public believe revenue from a potential tourist tax should be used to maintain free entry for national museums.
IN FULL
