News
Government to scrap hotel ratings system
The Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) could scrap the UK's star-ratings system for hotels in favour of consumer-led reviews next month.
Currently, more than 24,000 accommodation brands have opted to be assessed by the Automobile Association (AA) and tourist board VisitEngland. They receive an independent star rating under the Quality Assessment Scheme.
In comments to BBC Radio, tourism minister John Penrose suggested industry websites could provide a more efficient service.
“We would like to get people to use those websites rather more frequently, but also if the industry wants to carry on running a star rating system off its own back that is absolutely fine as well,” Penrose told Radio 4.
“It is rather bizarre that the government is involved in rating hotels when, for example, there is no government rating scheme for cars or cornflakes.”
The present system has been attacked in the past, with hoteliers arguing it is an expensive process for small businesses.
Bureaucratic loopholes also see quality properties miss out on top rankings through technicalities – such as not having a 24-hour reception.
A government decision on funding for the scheme is expected next month.
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