Written question asked by Jo Platt (Labour) on Thursday, 2 July 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 6 July 2026. It was answered by Dan Tomlinson (Labour) on Friday, 10 July 2026 on behalf of the Treasury.

Music Venues: Tickets

Question: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, if she will make an assessment with Cabinet colleagues of the potential merits of reducing VAT on cultural ticketing in Grassroots Music Venues.

Answer

VAT is a broad-based tax on consumption, and the 20 per cent standard rate applies to most goods and services. VAT is the UK’s third largest tax, forecast to raise £180 billion in 2025/26.

Tax breaks reduce the revenue available for vital public services and must represent value for money for the taxpayer. Exceptions to the standard rate have always been limited and balanced against affordability considerations.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 15422
Session: 2026-27
Transferred: Yes
Subjects: VAT Tickets Music venues
Link: View this Written question on www.parliament.uk

Music Venues: Tickets

Secondary information

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