News

MP backs campaign to reduce VAT

Published

10 years ago

March 27, 2015

A WEST Wales MP has backed a national campaign that calls for a cut on tourism VAT from the current 20% rate to 5%. The call has been made to Chancellor

Backing Tourism: L ocal
MP calls for VAT cut

George Osborne.

The ‘Cut Tourism VAT’ campaign is being run by a coalition of hotels, self catering caravan sites, bed and breakfast providers and visitor attractions. They cite 25 of the 28 countries in the European Union who already discount VAT on tourism. They claim that reducing VAT on tourism would make the UK more competitive with other destinations in Europe and would also increase the affordability, and therefore attractiveness, of regional tourism hotspots for both businesses and visitors alike.

Graham Wason, Chairman of ‘Cut Tourism VAT’, said: “International competition for tourism is increasing while the UK’s share of the global tourism market is declining, and I am delighted that Simon Hart MP is supporting our call for an urgent cut in tourism VAT which would boost the tourism industry and the wider economy in Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire.”

Backing the campaign, Simon Hart MP said: “A reduction of VAT on tourism from 20% to 5% would make a huge difference to Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire resulting in extra jobs and an additional £7.6m to the local economy. That’s why I’m backing the campaign and I’m asking the Chancellor of the Exchequer to give tourism in Wales a well-deserved boost.”

However, Plaid AM for Wales Mid and West, Simon Thomas said: “This recent statement shows the futility of voting Tory in Pembrokeshire when they cannot even get a Conservative Chancellor to agree to this policy. It demonstrates why we need a strong Plaid Cymru team of MPs from Wales after May 7th so Wales cannot be ignored. With a strong Plaid Cymru team of MPs including John Osmond and Councillor Elwyn Williams, Pembrokeshire and Wales cannot be ignored.

“The tourism industry has asked consistently for a cut in VAT in order to secure a boost in Wales, and Britain indeed, in terms of international tourism. I called on the First Minister last year to make representations with the Coalition Government for a VAT cut for tourist businesses.”

Community

Council warns of icy conditions as temperatures drop

Published

12 hours ago

November 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

ROAD users in Pembrokeshire are being urged to exercise caution tonight as temperatures are forecast to dip below freezing.

Pembrokeshire County Council has announced that road surface temperatures could reach as low as -2°C, with the possibility of sleet or snow on higher ground. In response, precautionary salting of the county’s primary routes will be carried out this evening and overnight.

A spokesperson for the council said: “Road users are advised to take care if travelling on untreated roads.”

Motorists are reminded to plan ahead and drive carefully, particularly in areas that may not have been treated.

Stay tuned to The Herald for updates on road conditions and weather warnings.

Community

Stallholders wanted for Milford Haven Christmas Market

Published

12 hours ago

November 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

MILFORD HAVEN BUSINESS CIRCLE is calling for stallholders to join the town’s festive Christmas Market, set to bring holiday cheer on Friday, December 6, and Saturday, December 7, 2024.

The market will take place at the Lower Charles Street Car Park, promising a vibrant mix of stalls and attractions. Organizers are seeking a variety of vendors, including those offering gifts, children’s toys and games, food, cakes, flowers, and more.

There’s also an open invitation for someone with small children’s rides to add to the festive fun. A highlight of the event will be the Grinch’s Grotto, offering an entertaining twist to this year’s celebrations.

If you’re interested in having a stall, contact the Milford Haven Business Circle via email at [email protected] for more information.

Mark your calendars and join the excitement as Milford Haven celebrates the season in style!

Community

Milford Haven Business Circle launches litter-free zone initiative

Published

12 hours ago

November 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

MILFORD HAVEN BUSINESS CIRCLE is calling on the community to join the launch of its new Litter-Free Zone.

In partnership with Keep Wales Tidy Pembrokeshire, the initiative aims to create a cleaner, greener town centre while promoting environmental responsibility and community pride.

The event marks a collective effort to raise awareness about the importance of maintaining a litter-free environment and highlights the far-reaching benefits of a cleaner town centre.

The organisation says that a cleaner, more attractive town centre is key to drawing visitors and potential investors.

This initiative is expected to stimulate economic activity, benefiting local businesses and encouraging growth in Milford Haven.

The project not only enhances the town’s appearance but also instils a sense of pride among residents. By improving cleanliness, the initiative aims to encourage more community participation in local events and activities.

Reducing litter has significant environmental benefits, including:

Protecting Wildlife: Preventing harm to animals caused by ingestion or entanglement.
Cleaner Air and Water: Reducing pollution in streets and waterways, fostering healthier ecosystems.
Sustainable Practices: Encouraging recycling and proper waste disposal to cut down on the town’s environmental footprint.
Creating Green Spaces: Supporting the development of habitats, recreational areas, and improved air quality for residents.

The Milford Haven Business Circle believes this initiative will set a strong example for other communities, demonstrating the power of collective action in fostering a sustainable future.

By joining this movement, participants can contribute to making Milford Haven a shining example of environmental care and community cooperation. Let’s work together to transform our town into a cleaner, greener space for all to enjoy.

Stay tuned for event details and updates. Together, we can make a difference!