'Not much difference': few takers on first day of hospitality VAT cut

Much remained quiet or closed in centres of Manchester and London as measure came into effect

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Shoppers and workers were in scant supply in London and Manchester’s city centres on Wednesday, leaving few people to take advantage on the first day of a reduction in VAT for food, accommodation and attractions.

The chancellor, Rishi Sunak, in his summer statement last week, slashed valued added tax from 20% to 5% on goods and services including meals in restaurants, cafes and pubs, hot takeaway food and entrance to attractions such as zoos and museums.

Related: UK fast-food and coffee chains cut prices as VAT relief comes into effect