The Association of British Travel Agents (ABTA) has expressed concerns over the inclusion of the Overnight Visitor Levy in the King's Speech, delivered by King Charles III. The levy, part of the Labour government's legislative agenda, would allow English mayors and local leaders to impose a new tax on overnight visitors, potentially affecting the UK's tourism sector.

ABTA's Director of Public Affairs, Luke Petherbridge, highlighted the organisation's longstanding concerns about the cumulative impact of taxes on UK travel and tourism. "We’ve long expressed concern with the cumulative impact of taxes and charges on UK travel and tourism, which is already uncompetitive on cost grounds," Petherbridge stated. He emphasised the importance of reinvesting the funds raised from the levy back into tourism and local communities.

The association plans to engage with local mayors and sector partners, including the Tourism Alliance, to ensure the levy supports local tourism development. ABTA also awaits the government's full report on the consultation to reiterate its members' views.

Additionally, ABTA noted the significance of the UK-EU bill, which aims to foster closer relations with the EU, crucial for both outbound and inbound travel. The organisation is advocating for changes to boost these sectors, including a youth-experience scheme to facilitate work opportunities for young people in the EU.

ABTA will also monitor the implications of the Civil Aviation Bill on consumer travel, ensuring that the interests of travellers are safeguarded

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