Joining mounting criticism of the tough Budget proposals, the Jersey Hospitality Association (JHA) said that the tourism industry was already over-burdened with unacceptable levels of bureaucracy, legislation and regulation.Expressing its dismay at such a ‘negative’ Budget, the association said: ‘The various changes being proposed to our tax system will inevitably damage our sector’s competitiveness further if they are implemented.
Proposals such as a tax on benefits in kind, PAYE, VAT or sales tax will all inevitably cause tourism proprietors to reconsider the merits of remaining in business in Jersey.
If these tax proposals are coupled with an unmanageable minimum wage level, it will certainly force many business people over the brink.’And like the other critics, hoteliers are dismayed by perceived negative implications of the Budget for all sectors of the economy and the States’ alleged failure to listen to local first-hand advice.The association is also concerned that raising vehicle registration duty will increase hire rates by about £1 per day and that proposed increases in alcohol and tobacco duties will also blunt the Island’s competitive edge.
