McArthur presses government on a point of entry visitor levy through cruise ship consultation

Orkney’s MSP Liam McArthur has today urged the government to give serious consideration to the introduction of a point-of-entry visitor levy as part of the ongoing consultation on a cruise-ship passenger levy.

The consultation follows the introduction of the Visitor Levy Act last year, which gives local authorities the option of implementing an accommodation-based tax on overnight stays. 

Destination Orkney published a report earlier this year which demonstrated strong preference across the local tourism sector for a point-of-entry levy which would be collected by transport operators. 

Speaking at General Questions Mr McArthur highlighted the concerns around the existing visitor levy, which excludes cruise ship passengers and motorhomes, and called on the government to support the proposals for a point of entry levy as a “fairer, simpler and more equitable approach.”

Commenting after the exchange Mr McArthur said: 

“When the Visitor Levy Act was undergoing scrutiny last year, I made the case strongly for cruise ship passengers and motorhomes to be included in its scope. Whilst my amendments were not successful, I was encouraged to see the government launch a consultation on a cruise ship levy earlier this year, which includes an option for local authorities to apply a point of entry levy.  

“It is vital that any visitor levy must recognise and be tailored to the needs of our island communities. There remain significant concerns locally about the implications of an accommodation-based tax on overnight stays and the disproportionate impact this will have on small businesses and accommodation providers. Logistical difficulties also appear to have been underestimated. 

“A point of entry levy, which would cover tourists visiting Orkney in cruise ships and motorhomes as well as staying in overnight accommodation would offer a fairer and more straightforward solution.

“I’d encourage any business owners involved in the tourism industry locally to make their views known through the Scottish Government consultation, which closes on the 30th May."