The Conservatives say they will bring back tax-free shopping for eligible overseas visitors, pledging to restore VAT refunds as part of plans to boost spending on Britain’s high streets. Party leader Kemi Badenoch says a future Conservative government would reverse a change made by the previous Conservative administration.
The outlets report that the scheme was scrapped in 2021. BBC Business adds that removing tax-free shopping left the UK less competitive compared with other European destinations that still offer similar VAT refund benefits. Retail Gazette focuses on the policy commitment and the intent to undo the prior decision, while noting the pledge is aimed at increasing visitor spend across the country.
