World · 21 May 2026
Reeves cuts VAT to 5%, offers free bus for under-16s
Unsplash / Vitolda Klein
Families will see some savings on summer activities, but won't receive universal support for their rising energy bills. Chancellor Rachel Reeves announced a temporary VAT cut from 20% to 5% for attractions and children's meals, effective from late June until September. This "Great British Summer Savings" campaign also includes free bus journeys for under-16s in England during August.
Reported by BBC · How we write briefs