Petition · past parliament · HM Treasury
Extend the 5% reduced VAT rate to seasonal seaside amusement arcades.
Closed
970 signatures
What the petition asks
The announcement of a 5% cut in VAT for tourism was a very welcome step, as is its recent extension. However, the measure does not apply to seasonal seaside amusement arcades. This is a serious oversight. They are in exactly the same boat as other tourism businesses that now attract the 5% rate.
Seasonal seaside amusement arcades contribute around £1.6 billion to the UK economy each year. They employ close to 20000 people.
A reduced VAT rate would be a lifeline to many businesses both to stimulate demand and to protect cash in the businesses where it can be reinvested.
The cost to the Treasury will be comparatively small and would provide the boost that seasonal businesses desperately need. This would also bring the VAT rate into line with the 5% MGD rate payable in these venues.
A reduced VAT rate would be a lifeline to many businesses both to stimulate demand and to protect cash in the businesses where it can be reinvested.
The cost to the Treasury will be comparatively small and would provide the boost that seasonal businesses desperately need. This would also bring the VAT rate into line with the 5% MGD rate payable in these venues.
Timeline
| 19 Mar 2021 | Petition opened for signatures |
| 19 Sep 2021 | Closed to new signatures |
Key facts
Signatures
970
Status
Closed
Department
HM Treasury
Opened
19 Mar 2021
Closed
19 Sep 2021
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Source: the official petition page. Last checked 15 Jul 2026.