Scarborough and Whitby MP holds meeting to hear from hospitality businesses ahead of budget
Alison Hume MP has met with hospitality businesses from across Scarborough and Whitby to hear first-hand about the challenges facing the industry.
The meeting, held at Scarborough Rugby Club, brought together representatives from restaurants, cafes, hotels and accommodation providers to discuss issues affecting the sector locally.
During the session, businesses shared their thoughts and experiences on a range of topics, including operating costs, VAT and employment.
Evidence gathered at the event will help shape Ms Hume’s conversations with ministers and officials in Westminster ahead of the October budget, ensuring the voices of hospitality businesses in Scarborough and Whitby are heard before decisions affecting them are made.
Ms Hume said: “Hospitality businesses are such an important part of Scarborough, Whitby and the villages, which is why I wanted to hear first-hand from them.
“They create jobs, support our local economy and help make this such a fantastic place to live and visit.
“The message was loud and clear – the hospitality sector is asking for VAT to be reduced. It’s the only breathing space available for hard-pressed businesses juggling increasing costs across the board.
“It was a really honest and constructive discussion.
“I’m incredibly grateful to everyone who came along and shared their experiences.
“Hearing directly from the people running businesses day in, day out, was invaluable and I’ll be passing on what they told me.”
The consultation formed part of Ms Hume’s ongoing work to engage directly with local employers and businesses, using their expertise and knowledge to inform national policymaking.
It also provided an opportunity to discuss measures the Labour Government has introduced to support hospitality businesses, including lower permanent business rate multipliers, the Great British Summer Savings scheme and reforms to relax regulations around outdoor seating and temporary events.
Ms Hume thanked those who attended and said the discussion provided invaluable insight into both the challenges facing the sector and opportunities to help local businesses succeed.
She added: “I want local hospitality businesses to know their voices matter and I’ll be taking the feedback from this event directly back to Treasury ministers.
“I’ll continue working closely with businesses across Scarborough and Whitby to help them thrive and make the most of the opportunities ahead.”