The Government has introduced a temporary reduction in VAT on selected family activities and children’s meals in an effort to ease the cost of summer holidays for households across the UK. From 25 June until 1 September, VAT on attractions such as theme parks, zoos, museums, cinemas, theatres, wildlife parks, and family entertainment venues will fall from 20% to 5%. Children’s meals in participating restaurants will also qualify, while children aged five to fifteen in England will benefit from free bus travel during August. Rachel Reeves said the measures are designed to help families create affordable summer memories amid ongoing cost-of-living pressures. However, some economists, charities, and families have questioned how much practical difference the scheme will make, noting that businesses are not required to pass on the savings to customers. Others have highlighted the administrative burden placed on smaller businesses. The initiative, which will cost around £300 million, forms part of a wider package of measures aimed at supporting households facing rising living expenses and financial pressures.