As part of the government jobs initiative – there are some VAT reductions coming into force today (July 1st 2011) on many services relating to tourism.
This new temporary reduced rate of VAT at 9% will last until the end of December 2013. This is a cut of 4.5% from the current 13.5% VAT
The new lower 9% VAT rate will apply to the following items and services:
Catering and restaurant supplies, including vending machines and take-away food (excluding alcohol and soft drinks sold as part of the meal)
Hotel lettings, including guesthouses, caravan parks, camping sites etc
Cinemas, theatres, certain musical performances, museums, art gallery exhibitions
Fairgrounds or amusement park services
Hairdressing services.
Facilities for taking part in sporting activities including green fees charged for golf and subscriptions charged by non-member-owned golf clubs
Printed matter e.g. newspapers, brochures, leaflets, programmes, maps, catalogues, printed music (excluding books)