Beth Butterwick, head of Clarendon Fine Art, has warned that the government's decision to end tax-free shopping for overseas visitors is driving art collectors abroad and undermining the British art market. Butterwick argues that the so-called tourist tax, along with proposals for a hotel levy and rising business costs, is making the United Kingdom less attractive for investment and harming city centres and high streets across the country. Despite the United Kingdom being the world's second-largest art market, she notes that visitor numbers and sales have suffered compared to other countries, with collectors increasingly seeking better deals elsewhere. Butterwick also highlights broader challenges facing retail and hospitality, including rising crime, business rates, and employment legislation, and calls for government action to stimulate growth and support creative industries. Nevertheless, she remains optimistic about the future and is focused on expanding Clarendon's gallery network, urging policymakers to recognise and promote the country's cultural strengths.