Welcome to Yorkshire - In Response to Chancellor of the Exchequer Rishi Sunak MP’s Summer Economic Statement

Welcome to Yorkshire Chief Executive James Mason (pictured) said “The Chancellor’s announcement to cut VAT from 20% to 5% will be a huge welcome boost for thousands of organisations within Yorkshire’s tourism industry.

"It’s been a tough year for many businesses and hopefully this will be an incentive to encourage spending across the sector with people being able to take advantage of reduced prices on food, drink, accommodation and admission to the county’s amazing attractions.

"The additional news to introduce an Eat Out to Help Out discount, with meals purchased at any participating business from Monday to Wednesday throughout August with 50% off, will also encourage dining out at a time of the week that is traditionally quieter, allowing businesses to implement successful social distancing, yet spreading out welcoming customers over a number of days.

"The tourism industry is worth £9bn to the Yorkshire economy and employs almost 225,000 people, and hopefully increased consumer spending will help secure the future jobs of many working within tourism businesses. We hope that the next few weeks and months will see visitors safely enjoying all the wonderful things Yorkshire has to offer, from its spectacular coastline, breathtaking countryside and vibrant cities, as well as world-class food and drink, spectacular heritage locations and outstanding attractions.

"A significant rise in visits to Welcome to Yorkshire’s website yorkshire.com in recent months reflects a real thirst for daytrips and staycations in the county post-COVID-19.”