John Lamont

John Lamont

Conservative — Berwickshire, Roxburgh and Selkirk

Speaking in the House of Commons on 12 November 2026

Debate

Hospitality Sector VAT: Local Economies, Employment and Growth

Contribution

My hon. Friend makes an excellent point. We taxed smoking to try to stop people smoking, and the Government’s philosophy seems to be that they are taxing jobs to try to stop people being employed. During the pandemic, hospitality VAT was cut to 5% to help businesses to survive. The Prime Minister has spoken in favour of a rate more aligned with Europe. Last month’s Budget was the chance to make that change, and it was missed. Business rates in Scotland are, of course, devolved so changes to rates in England do nothing for businesses in my constituency. However, VAT is UK-wide, so a cut would reach every hospitality business in the country, including those in the Scottish Borders. My ask of the Minister, on behalf of the hundreds of businesses across the Scottish Borders that are desperate for financial relief, is that the Government reduce the pressure on businesses by looking again at a reduced VAT rate for the sector. Businesses such as Giacopazzi’s have served our communities for hundreds of years. Let us give them a fighting chance to survive, Minister.

More from John Lamont

Other recent Hansard contributions by the same speaker.

About Hansard

Hansard is the official verbatim record of proceedings in the UK Parliament. Every word spoken in the Commons and Lords is recorded and published — this page is a single contribution from that record.

For John Lamont's full parliamentary record including voting history, expenses and all other contributions, see the John Lamont report card.