Celebrity chef Tom Kerridge has called on Labour leader Andy Burnham to implement a permanent cut to the value-added tax (VAT) on hospitality, as a temporary tax relief on children’s meals and family attraction tickets expires on September 1. The short-term measure, which reduced VAT from 20% to 5%, was introduced on June 25 with the government stating its aim was to help families enjoy summer outings and boost the hospitality sector during the peak season.

In a recent opinion piece, Kerridge welcomed the temporary reduction but described it as “time-limited and narrow in scope,” urging for a broader VAT cut across the entire hospitality industry. He advocated lowering the VAT rate from 20% to 10%, aligning it with rates seen in several European countries, including France, Italy, and Spain, where the rate stands at 10%, and Ireland, which lowered its hospitality VAT rate from 13.5% to 9% in July.

Kerridge highlighted the increasing challenges facing pubs, hotels, and restaurants, citing rising costs for food, energy, employment, and business rates. He warned that current tax policies have made it more difficult to operate hospitality businesses in the UK compared to competitors across Europe. The chef described a VAT reduction not as a special favor but as essential for the survival of the sector, which employs millions and contributes billions to the economy.

The chef’s remarks follow recent comments from prominent business figures, such as Asda chairman Allan Leighton and Frasers Group tycoon Mike Ashley, who have urged the government to provide relief from heavy tax burdens affecting businesses. Kerridge, who previously endorsed Labour before the 2024 general election, praised the party’s recognition of VAT as a tool to support the sector but stressed that a more comprehensive approach was needed.

He also emphasized the broader social impact of hospitality closures, noting that shutting pubs and restaurants affects communities by reducing employment opportunities and diminishing social hubs. Kerridge pointed out that the industry plays a crucial role in providing first jobs for young people, a demographic facing significant employment challenges amid a declared national youth joblessness crisis.