Outrage Over SNP’s Proposed Tourist Tax: A Burden on Expecting Mothers in the Highlands
Campaigners are expressing their strong dissatisfaction with the Scottish National Party’s (SNP) recent proposal for a tourist tax, claiming it will not effectively tackle the issue of overtourism in the Highlands of Scotland. Instead, critics assert that the tax unjustly penalizes vulnerable groups, particularly expectant mothers.
Details of the Tourist Tax
The proposed tourist tax is projected to generate around £10 million annually for local councils by imposing a 5% levy on visitors for each room they occupy per night. However, many argue that this tax unfairly targets individuals who require overnight medical care, labeling it a "shameful levy on the sick."
Residents in the remote Highlands often have to journey approximately 100 miles to reach their nearest hospital, Raigmore in Inverness. The Caithness Health Action Team (CHAT), an advocacy group from northern Scotland, has condemned the tax as a “tax on expectant mums and unborn babies,” according to the Northern Times.
Concerns from Local Residents
Iain Gregory, vice-chairman of CHAT, voiced concerns that the new tax fails to address the primary worries of Highlands residents regarding overtourism while simultaneously imposing additional costs on those who need to travel for medical care.
He stated, “The main challenge we face in the Highlands is the dramatic increase in wild camping, primarily by motorhomes, which are now common in every nook along the North Coast 500. The influx of campervans is a growing issue that demands attention.”
Though the tax does not apply to campervans, motorhomes, campsites, or cruise ship passengers, council officials noted that those traveling for NHS treatment may be able to claim back their expenses from the health board.
The Burden on Expectant Mothers
Mr. Gregory further elaborated, “In summary, the campervans, which create the most disruption in our area, will escape this new tax. Meanwhile, countless individuals from Caithness who must stay overnight in Inverness—whether for medical appointments or to visit friends and family—will be classified as ‘tourists’ and charged 5% plus VAT.”
He emphasized the plight of pregnant women who must endure the taxing journey to Raigmore for childbirth. “Those expecting mothers, often already stressed by their situation, will now face a tax levied by Highland Council,” he lamented.
Gregory also pointed out the council’s assertion that patients can claim expenses from their local NHS board. “I urge someone at Highland Council to review that policy thoroughly. The NHS Highland’s reimbursement rate is capped at a mere £50 per night for B&B stays, which hardly covers accommodation expenses, especially when additional taxes are applied,” he argued.
A Call for Reconsideration
He concluded, “This proposal is a violation against the sick and an unfair tax on both expectant mothers and their unborn children. If implemented, many individuals from Caithness and throughout the Highlands will find themselves financially penalized due to health issues. We urgently request Highland Council to reconsider this ill-conceived proposal.”
In response, a spokesperson for Highland Council stated, “The Council is currently conducting a public statutory consultation to gather opinions regarding the proposed Visitor Levy scheme across the Highlands. We encourage community members to share their thoughts during this consultation process.”
