Andy Heath

The Budget was a disaster for Hospitality. I hoped the Government would finally listen and deliver. I’m sad to admit I was wrong. Rates relief means little when employment and operating costs keep rising. What matters is the total bill landing on the doormat, and whether there’s enough left to keep people employed and the doors open and this budget helped just 2.9% of Hospitality venues - and only just. The cavalry didn’t just fail to turn up. They ran away. Hospitality has been patient. We’ve put forward the evidence, explained the consequences and made the case for a VAT cut. We cannot keep running on warm words. To the MPs who have publicly backed a cut, thank you. Whatever your party, that support matters. To those who haven’t: don’t expect endless hospitality while staying silent about the policies putting us out of business. Perhaps it’s time the welcome on our doors reflected the support we get through yours. #Hospitality #CutVAT #VatinlinewithEurope