BED TAX

Early day motion 2232, tabled 23 May 2006 by Nigel Evans (Conservative). Signed by 78 members.

That this House notes with concern the proposal for a `bed tax' which is currently being considered by Sir Michael Lyons as part of an official inquiry into local government funding; calls on the Government to oppose this idea; notes the problems that it could cause to the tourism industry in England and Wales; recognises how it will worsen the £17.5 billion trade deficit and would disadvantage the United Kingdom hotel and guest house industry against many other countries; is concerned that it could cost thousands of hospitality jobs up and down the country; further notes that it has been estimated that a 10 per cent. `bed tax' would add £100 to an average week's holiday for a family of four; and therefore calls on the Government to make an early announcement that this proposal will be rejected.

Signatures by party: Conservative 37, Liberal Democrat 23, Labour 12, DUP 3, Plaid Cymru 1, Respect 1, Social Democratic and Labour Party 1.