A HOLIDAY tax will wipe billions from the economy and threaten jobs for young people, a hotel boss has warned.

The proposed UK-wide per person, per night levy on stays would hammer growth, Hilton chief Stephen Cassidy says.

A family of four, including two boys and two adults, walking across a sunny meadow towards a bell tent.A UK-wide per person, per night levy on stays is being proposedCredit: Getty Steve Cassidy, MD UK and Ireland for Hilton, photographed at the Hilton Cobham.Hilton chief Stephen CassidyCredit: �Nick Morrish 2021

Hospitality UK has estimated hard-working British families could face an extra £100 or more for a two-week as a result of it.

In a social media post, Mr Cassidy said: “A risks deterring both British travellers, who make up the majority of hotel guests in the UK, and international visitors who play a vital role in supporting local economies.”

And he warned: “Hospitality is also one of Britain’s most important gateways into work.

“Nearly four in ten people employed in the sector are aged between 16 and 24, making it the country’s largest employers of young people.

“At a time when close to one million young people are not in education, or training, reducing demand for tourism and hospitality risks reducing opportunity. “

He pointed to industry figures suggesting a levy could slash £2.2bn from , cut tourism spending by £1.8bn and cost 33,000 .

Mr Cassidy went on: “The tax burden on the hospitality sector is already damaging and unfair.

“Government policies should help unlock hospitality and tourism’s potential – not hold it back.”

Bartender in an apron reaching for a wine glass above the bar.A levy could cost 33,000 jobsCredit: SolStock