DANCE LESSONS AND DANCE COMPETITIONS FALL WITHIN THE SCOPE OF VALUE ADDED TAX (VAT)

His Majesty's Revenue and Customs (HMRC) has now issued its findings following the First-tier Tax Tribunal, which was held a few weeks ago in Manchester. These findings are exceptionally concerning for the dance community and sport as a whole. 

HMRC has determined that, while recognising dance is taught within schools, specific genres, including Ballroom, Latin American, Classical, Cheer, and Salsa, are not sufficiently defined for tax exemption. Consequently, they have concluded that both dance lessons and competitions fall within the scope of Value Added Tax (VAT) at the standard rate. 

The British DanceSport Association has already written to both the Chancellor of the Exchequer and the Prime Minister to express our grave concern at this decision. In addition, we have written to every Member of Parliament urging them to take up this matter. However, under parliamentary protocol, Members of Parliament may only act when directly approached by their constituents. Accordingly, we now respectfully call upon every individual involved in dance, whether parent, dancer, or professional, to write to their Member of Parliament to express their concern. 

The BDSA will issue a comprehensive report in the coming days, providing full details to our members. In the meantime, we urge all concerned parties to coordinate their efforts with us. Should any individual or organisation wish to assist or support us in this important matter, don't hesitate to get in touch with our office directly. 

Whilst we are disappointed that the Government has, at this stage, not responded positively to our representations, we remain committed to dialogue and hopeful that further engagement will bring about a fair and just resolution.