Theme park VAT rise is 'unjust'
Leisure unions and politicians say proposal to increase VAT on entrance fees will 'destabilise' tourism
A PROPOSAL to increase the rate of VAT charged on theme park tickets will "totally destabilise the tourist economy" and is "unjust", park operators and politicians say.
In austerity measures unveiled last week, prime minister Francois Fillon announced that VAT would rise on theme park entrance fees from 5.5% to 19.6%.
The decision "directly threatens the future of big national theme parks like Puy du Fou, in Vendée" according to local politicians Dominique Souchet and Véronique Besse.
Opponents to the proposal say the move will also affect local jobs in entertainment, accommodation and catering.
Phillipe de Villiers, founder of Puy du Fou said he was "revolted" by the proposed tax increase.
Snelac, the national association for leisure activities, asked Mr Fillon to reconsider his proposal.
The union said: "This proposition was made with neither warning nor consultation. No other sector has been faced with rises of almost 14%.
"The proposal is unjust and discriminatory."
Families are likely to see an increase of almost 15% on gate prices to theme parks and zoos across France.
Photo: David Jafra/Flickr
