00:00So yes, we expect a so-called tourist tax will be introduced here in the capital, along with a number of other cities in England.
00:11Mayors are to be given the power to impose a modest charge on visitors staying in hotels, bed and breakfasts, guest houses and holiday lets under brand new legislation.
00:23The measure has been called for by regional leaders, including London Mayor Sir Sadiq Khan, as well as Greater Manchester's Andy Burnham.
00:34Indeed, the mayor welcomed this decision, Sir Sadiq said, giving mayors the powers to raise a tourist levy is great news for London,
00:45adding the extra funding will directly support London's economy and help cement the city's reputation as a global tourism and business destination.
00:57However, Kate Nicholls, the chairwoman of Industry Body UK Hospitality, warned what she described as the damaging holiday tax could cost the public up to £580 million,
01:10adding this cost will be passed directly onto consumers, drive inflation and undermine the government's aim to reduce the cost of living.
01:20The plans will be subject to a consultation running until February 18, which will consider issues including whether there should be a cap on the size of the levy.
01:33While Westminster City Council leader Adam Hugg called for revenues from the tax to be shared with local councils rather than kept by mayors.
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