Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, if she will make an assessment of the potential impact of the proposed overnight visitor levy on rural areas.

The Government published its response to the Overnight Visitor Levy consultation on 10 September 2026, during which the Government heard from a broad range of stakeholders, including representatives from rural areas. The choice of whether to introduce a levy will rest with strategic authorities, following consultation in their area. The impacts of the levy will be determined by local decisions, and any levy will need to reflect local circumstances, including the implications for businesses, visitor destinations and rural economies. Strategic authorities will be expected to consult with businesses and communities, and to assess the likely effects of their proposals before implementation.