Reader DM Deamer (Letters, April 24) joins local MP Rachael Maskell in her crusade against York’s most prominent industry – tourism.
As an economist, I’d argue that the most efficient way of addressing any negative spillover from tourism is not through bans or restrictions, but through prices.
French towns and cities have implemented ‘tourist taxes’ - small additional local charges on hotels - for years. Manchester was the first British city to introduce a £1 per-night tourist tax just last year. York should follow suit.
Let visitors come, just make sure they pay for the full cost of their visit (including the slight inconvenience caused to some of our grumpier residents).
Lee Crawfurd Pulleyn Drive, York
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel