WHY are we not operating a Tourist Tax in Cumbria?

It’s not a radical idea; it’s a solution to various funding problems. According to ETOA’s (European Tourist Association) website, London, Edinburgh and Cornwall have or are considering it, but as yet it has not been instituted anywhere in the UK.

Virtually all countries in Europe operate a tourist tax. It obviously varies from location to location, but it constitutes a tiny, and virtually insignificant, proportion of a holiday’s cost.

It does not seem to have the slightest negative effect on we Brits taking European breaks. It can have an extremely positive effect on the the tourist experience.

I personally find that the provision of information, signage, public conveniences and support by local and tourist authorities in the Lakes is embarrassingly inadequate.

Can one even imagine the circumstances where a visiting walker could join a group for a guided walk in the hills and be transported by bus, free of charge, to and from the starting point, in the Lake District? It happens in Austria. Austria may be exceptional but this could be something for us to aim for.

Just imagine how much money just £1 per night levied on each occupant of a hotel or B&B room, on every camper or caravanner and on all in self- catering accommodation would raise each week, month and year and how it would help cash-strapped authorities.

I feel that it is the Europeans who are doing the right thing here and we are being a little stupid in not doing the same.

David Snaith

Kendal