City leader ‘ confident’ of tourist tax despite slapdown on Twitter
Edinburgh’ s council leader last night said he remains “confident” a tourism tax will be rolled out across the city, despite comments on Twitter from the Scottish tourism secretary.
Adam Mcvey was criticised on social media by fellow SNP member Fiona Hyslop over his ambition for the policy within 12 months.
Any Transient Visitor Levy ( TVL) would need the approval of the Scottish Government.
Posting on Twitter, Mr Mcvey said :“In the next 12 months, our plans for a ‘ tourist tax’ will be ready for imple - mentation.
“While it may take longer to deliver the powers necessary to star t collection, our time - line is robust and we will be ready to go.”
Ms Hyslop, who is currently on a trip to Japan, replied: “? ? ? So let’s be clear – you have no shared plans, no tourist business consultation and no agreement with Scottish Gov.”
The council is proposing adding £ 1 to hotel bills in order to drum up an estimated £ 11 million of extra revenue f or the city.
Mr Mcvey said: “All 32 local authority leaders now stand with Edinburgh and other councils looking to pursue a tourist tax and momentum is building.
“Key hotel industry leaders in the city are also joining the conversation and giving their support to our efforts. This is a key part of our programme for the capital and I’m confi- dent we will deliver a TVL in the best interests of our tourist economy and the people of Edinburgh.”
While many believe the tax would generate much- needed funding for the city, opponents say the added charge could put pressure on businesses.
Edinburgh Conservative group chairman, Jason Rust, said :“The proposals being brought for ward by the SNPled administration seem to be in absolute chaos to the extent they don’t have the confidence of their own Cabinet Secretary and are publicly split on this issue.”