New rules that threaten the viability of tourism businesses across Wales will today face a challenge from the Welsh Conservatives.
In the Welsh Parliament today, Shadow Tourism Minister Tom Giffard MS will move to strike down Labour’s damaging 182-day threshold for holiday let properties, which the Wales Tourism Alliance warn will be devastating for the industry.
If the threshold isn’t met, then properties will be liable for a 300% council tax increase.
It comes after news of 1,400 holiday let owners set to quit Wales as a result of the rules, with potentially devastating consequences for the 1-in-7 jobs in Wales that rely on tourism.
Commenting, Welsh Conservative Shadow Minister for Culture, Tourism & Sport, Tom Giffard MS, said:
“When tourism businesses across Wales are saying they are going to have to close as a result of these changes, it’s clear that it’s time to act.
“These businesses were more than willing to compromise on a 105-day threshold but were completely ignored by Labour ministers.
“Welsh Conservatives are the only party standing up for our tourism sector, which is desperate for support to help them bounce back from pandemic restrictions.”
