Senedd Members Paul Davies and Samuel Kurtz have condemned the Welsh Government’s controversial Visitor Accommodation (Register and Levy) Etc. (Wales) Bill following its passing at the Senedd on the 8th July 2025.
The Pembrokeshire politicians have been critical of the Bill from the outset, highlighting the harm it could have on local tourism operators in the county. Despite their opposition, the Bill was passed and paves the way for local authorities to impose a charge of up to £1.30 per person, per night on overnight stays in Wales from 2027.
Mr Davies said: “Operators in Pembrokeshire have made it very clear that they do not support this policy and yet the Welsh Government has ignored the concerns of our tourism industry and pushed ahead with a Bill that risks damaging one of Wales’ most important economic sectors.”
“Tourism is a huge part of the Pembrokeshire economy, and the sector has had a turbulent few years – facing additional regulations, thresholds and now this levy. The Welsh Government should be focussing on removing burdens and helping the industry build back post-Covid, rather than finding ways to squeeze the sector more.”
Mr Kurtz said: “Tourism businesses are the beating heart of our local economy, but instead of backing them, Labour do what Labour do best and decide to clobber them with yet another tax.
“An additional £1.30 nightly charge might sound small to out-of-touch politicians in Cardiff Bay, but on the ground, it will make Wales less competitive, deter visitors, and put jobs at risk.
“You just can’t compare Wales to cities such as Barcelona or Venice who have introduced a tourism tax. Our tourism industry is less mature that these cities, and Venice have introduced the tax to actively deter visitors.
“Welsh Ministers should be concentrating on extending the visitor season, increasing the number of overseas visitors to Wales, and showcasing what we have to offer. Instead, they choose doom, gloom and extra tax.”
