The Labour government led by Andy Burnham has confirmed that the VAT savings initiative for families will conclude at midnight on Tuesday, 1 September. A press release issued on Friday, 28 August, announced the end of the VAT Great British Savings Scheme.
Throughout the summer, hardworking families across the UK have benefited from millions of pounds in savings, thanks to the government’s Great British Summer Savings initiative, as stated by HM Treasury. The scheme was initially introduced by former Chancellor Rachel Reeves.
Since assuming office as Prime Minister in July, Mr Burnham appointed John Healey as Chancellor, succeeding Ms Reeves. Despite this change in leadership, the VAT savings scheme has continued unaltered.
The government encourages families to make the most of the remaining days of the scheme over the upcoming bank holiday weekend. The scheme includes a reduced VAT rate from 20% to 5% on children’s meals at restaurants and tickets to attractions such as theatres and soft play centres, as well as free bus travel in England for children aged five to fifteen.
The scheme will officially end at midnight on 1 September. Fiona Eastwood, CEO of Merlin Entertainments, remarked, “The Great British Summer Savings scheme has allowed more families to enjoy memorable days out this summer, while also providing a welcome boost to destinations across the UK.”
She added, “We were delighted to pass these savings on to our guests at Merlin’s UK attractions, making visits more accessible and helping more families create lasting memories during the school holidays.”
Lucy Fenner, Commercial Director of Alexandra Park and Palace Charitable Trust, stated, “It has been wonderful to see so many families take advantage of the Great British Summer Savings scheme here at Ally Pally. Government initiatives that support charities and businesses in offering affordable days out help families and communities engage more with green spaces and local attractions, especially during the school holidays.”
Chancellor John Healey said, “I encourage every family to enjoy the bank holiday weekend by benefiting from the final days of the Great British Summer Savings. Our government is committed to providing a little extra breathing space so families can afford the outings that make the summer holidays special, while also supporting our world-class attractions and businesses with a valuable boost in trade.”