12 March 2008

Tourism minister urges support for strategic review

Britain's tourism professionals have been urged to help shape the future of the industry as part of a strategic review of VisitBritain.

Tourism minister Margaret Hodge, speaking at the opening of the 2008 British Travel Trade Fair in Birmingham, said: "As a government, we are whole-heartedly supportive of British tourism Ã¢â¬' don't let anybody tell you otherwise."

She called on BTTF delegates to take part in the government's strategic review to define the shape of the future of British tourism.

"We do face some specific challenges around the rather heavy charges visitors face when they come here, whether it's visa charges, something we control, or high hotel prices, which is a matter for the industry,Ã¢â¬~ she said.

But the strategic review and the 2012 Olympics present British tourism with a great opportunity, she said.

"I think this is a time to celebrate the success of British tourism," she went on. "The UK is fifth in the international tourism league, so we are doing brilliantly.

"For those who want to paint a gloomy picture, I say 'no' Ã¢â¬' I am an optimist, and tourism's glass if half full, not half empty."

Around 400 exhibitors are taking part in BTTF, the centrepiece of British Tourism Week, showcasing UK and Ireland tourism products and services to an anticipated 3,000 visitors from both home and overseas.

by Phil Davies