A proposed solution to the question of funding or at least a method of securing a significant contribution to the funding shortfall is by way of a tax specifically earmarked for this social purpose and payable without dilution or deduction. The UK has now effected Brexit and is committed to promote itself worldwide with its newly acquired trading position and sovereignty. Irrespective of the time necessary to grow the economy post Brexit and Covid the UK remains a tourist magnet attracting visitors from all corners of the world anxious to witness and partake of its history, culture, architecture, pageantry, performing arts, sporting activities, varied scenery and the rich variations of each individual country within the union. In 2019 there were 40.9 million visits to the UK. Those inboard visitors spent £28.4bn but this figure would not appear to cover internal tourism including hostels, B&Bs, and campers. There is therefore the opportunity to join the ever-growing group of countries who have already secured benefit from this established trade ie tourism. The introduction of a Tourist Tax is long overdue. A nominal levy incurred by UK travellers abroad for many years. Never sufficient to discourage travel and generally no more than an extra round at the bar or the tip left for room service. Edinburgh, Bath and London have already pursued discussion with regard to the introduction of a Tourist Tax designed to funnel money into the local economy but now is surely the time to effect implementation nationwide. Over 41 countries around the world charge a tourist tax. In Europe by example the following countries charge a tourist tax or equivalent : Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Italy, Netherlands, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Spain, Switzerland and Venice. The list is not exhaustive. In France the tax (Taxe de Sejour) is levied on a per person, per night basis dependent on the quality and standard of accommodation from ϵ0.50 to ϵ4.00. Similar charges apply in Greece and Spain and in Italy rates of ϵ4.50 apply to three star accommodation and ϵ4.90 apply to four star accommodation and ϵ5.00 for five star accommodation. On implementation children (say under 15) could be exempt. Charges could be levied on a per person, per night basis or on a room basis all dependent on the standard and quality of the accommodation. Collection could be made on a monthly or quarterly basis hotels and other accommodation units detailing the charge in their itemised bills and assigning the amount to their “tourist tax ledger” in a similar manner to VAT and accounting direct to the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) or any other newly created department designated for this specific purpose. The industry would not baulk at the arrangement as the concept of a Tourist Tax was never intended to directly increase revenue for individual businesses and by benefitting a vulnerable section of the community it may enable current carers to enjoy more travel or respite thus indirectly benefitting those collecting the tax. With adequate funding high quality care for the elderly, as expected by society, could be achieved and greater recognition for those providing the services could be secured by improved training, qualifications, career and salary structure.
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