Welsh Government Plans £1.25 Tourist Tax for Children, Sparking Controversy

The Welsh Government plans to introduce a £1.25-a-night tourist tax starting in 2027, which will apply to all guests at hotels, B&Bs, and self-catering accommodations, including children. Despite calls for exemptions for under-18s, Finance Secretary Mark Drakeford argued that such exemptions would significantly reduce tax revenue, which is intended to support tourism services and infrastructure. Critics, including hospitality leaders and educational organizations, warn that the tax could deter families from vacationing in Wales, with concerns that it may disproportionately impact children from low-income backgrounds. Some argue that the tax will create an additional financial burden, potentially leading to fewer educational trips for schools. UKHospitality Cymru has called for a reevaluation of the tax's implications on family holidays and the broader tourism sector. The Welsh Government insists the levy is a necessary measure for sustainable funding, despite growing opposition from various stakeholders.