Discussion about this post

User's avatar
Harry Watson's avatar

Interesting point Peter and having not been back too long from Italy wonder why the UK hasn't more widely introduced a tourist tax. I calculated I paid over €100 in such taxes for Sarah and my 7 nights stay. And of course we still paid to go into galleries etc. Not sure how the likes of the NG would operate a tourist charge (UK resident s offering proof of residence / nationality - passport, driving licence - not so straight forward in a country that doesn't universally have photo ID) and as a general point I think charging everyone in the UK to access 'national' art would deny those of lower income (as I once was) a chance to appreciate great art. I see theatre and concert going, becoming more and more art forms for those of wealth (especially in London). I'd hate to think painting and sculpture going the same way, but you make a valid argument re tourist charges that is worth exploration.

Expand full comment
Peter Harkness's avatar

Thanks for your comment, Josie. Like you I believe it's perfectly OK (even our duty) to challenge the status quo. It would be wonderful if some fountain of philanthropy was discovered which would mean every gallery or collection could open it's doors for free. In this world, however, we have to prioritise - and how we do that is a legitimate discussion!

Expand full comment
9 more comments...

No posts