Two of Britain’s most prominent celebrity chefs have lent their support to a campaign urging the government to reduce the VAT rate on hospitality services from 20% to 10%, arguing that the current tax burden is stifling recovery in the sector. Their backing comes as businesses continue to face financial strain amid rising costs and lingering challenges from the pandemic. The move would align the UK’s hospitality VAT rate with those of several European neighbors, potentially easing pressure on struggling pubs, restaurants, and hotels. Industry leaders say the change could help sustain jobs and encourage spending in a sector still struggling to regain pre-pandemic footing.
Celebrity chefs Heston Blumenthal and Tom Kerridge join call to halve hospitality VAT lbc.co.uk
