Prime Minister Andy Burnham has voiced support for an overnight tourism levy in Cornwall, suggesting it could be transformative for the county. During a brief visit to the Duchy, he also offered Cornwall Council a devolution deal, signalling a potential shift in local governance.
Support for tourism levy and devolution
Speaking at The Arborist café in Killiow, near Truro, Mr Burnham said he was "prepared to look at an overnight visitor levy for Cornwall." He noted that British tourists already pay similar charges across Europe, adding, "it could be something of a game changer for Cornwall." The Prime Minister argued that residents should not bear the full cost of services and infrastructure through council tax alone.
Mr Burnham's visit included a stop at Colwyn Farm in Perranwell Station to announce a £65m support package for farmers, prompted by concerns that hot, dry conditions could raise supermarket food prices. He also met with council leader Cllr Leigh Frost, who presented him with a box of Barnecutts pasties.
Devolution deal offer and cross-party call
Mr Burnham had earlier written to Cornwall Council leaders and the county's six MPs expressing support for devolution proposals. He reiterated his readiness to negotiate, saying, "If the six MPs and the leader of the council are ready to come to me and say 'that's what we want', I'm ready to give you that devolution deal." He urged cross-party unity, inviting leaders to "come to No 10 North, let's get around the table and let's thrash out a devolution deal for Cornwall."
While he still sees the case for a combined authority, he acknowledged that the form of devolution must feel right locally. "It's got to be bottom up," he said, adding that a larger authority could take on more powers, such as policing, but he aimed to deliver growth in every postcode.
Farming and hospitality support
Mr Burnham highlighted the unique challenges facing Cornwall's farmers, suggesting devolution could help, particularly through control of post-16 education. He also praised the hospitality sector, referencing The Arborist as an example of businesses that "give life, they give people a lift, they build a sense of community." He noted the government's commitment to a 20 per cent business rates cut for pubs, with a second stage expected in the upcoming budget.
The Prime Minister concluded by reiterating the potential of the visitor levy: "I think it could be a major game changer in Cornwall, if it's pitched the right way. Just start with a level that is fair. That is a new revenue stream and then you can borrow against that revenue stream." He expressed hope that a devolution deal would be in place by next year, delivering benefits for Cornwall. He then departed for a five-hour train journey back to London, commenting on the need for improved connectivity.
