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Towns must see benefits of any tourist tax, warns Harrogate MP

Tuesday, 23 December 2025 05:50

Harrogate and Knaresborough MP Tom Gordon.

Local MP Tom Gordon has warned that towns must benefit if a tourist tax is introduced in North Yorkshire.

The Liberal Democrat MP for Harrogate and Knaresborough, has warned that the money raised must be reinvested in the communities that generate it – not diverted away from towns like Harrogate and Knaresborough.

Speaking in Parliament, Tom highlighted the vital role tourism and hospitality play in the local economy.

He noted that many local hoteliers had been open to exploring the idea of a tourist tax prior to the budget announcement and recognised the potential benefits it could bring.

At the same time, he highlighted concerns that if the Labour Mayor for York and North Yorkshire, David Skaith, introduces the tax, money raised in Harrogate and Knaresborough could be spent elsewhere, leaving the towns short-changed.

Tom said:

"If the Mayor introduces a tourist tax in York and North Yorkshire, it is vital that hotels in Harrogate and Knaresborough see the benefits locally, not watch the funding disappear elsewhere.

"Local hoteliers have been exploring the idea of a tax, but they are clear that any money raised must be reinvested in the towns where it is generated.

"I’ll continue working closely with local businesses to ensure their views are heard and our towns get a fair deal."

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