The introduction of the HST in B.C has hurt business and led to some layoffs, a restaurant association says.The introduction of the HST in B.C has hurt business and led to some layoffs, a restaurant association says. (CBC)

The HST is not good for restaurant businesses big or small, a new survey suggests.

The Canadian Restaurant and Foodservices Association surveyed more than 800 of its member restaurants last week.

More than half the respondents in British Columbia said they have fewer customers who are spending less since July 1, when the 12-per-cent harmonized sales tax, which blends the federal goods and services tax with the provincial sales tax, came into effect.

According to the survey, 47 per cent of respondents said the tax has led to staff reductions.

A Vancouver MLA told CBC News he didn't need a survey to tell him that.

"I am hearing loudly and clearly: The HST has got to go," NDP tourism critic Spencer Chandra Herbert told CBC News.

"It is hitting them in their pocketbooks, and for restaurateurs who are surviving on a small profit margin they are forcing them to layoff staff and cut back hours," the MLA for Vancouver-West End said.

"It's not anything anyone wants to do but the government is making it very difficult for them … with the HST."