British tourist officials relieved by grant cut
Britain’s tourism funding has been cut by 5% for 2015/16, less than the 12% expected.
VisitBritain said this was a good result and was "clear evidence of Ministers’ commitment to the tourism industry".
A spokesman said it recognised the need to cut spending and was pleased with the 5% cut, which was the same reduction as for art galleries and museums.
It means Britain will get just under £20 million from the Government in 2015/16, compared to £20.5 million in 2014/15, £22.5 million for 2013/14 and the £24.5 million allocated in 2012/13.
VisitBritain chairman Christopher Rodrigues said: "We appreciate the efforts of Hugh Robertson and Maria Miller in batting for us through a tough spending round.
"VisitBritain is working hard to ensure Britain benefits from the unprecedented image boost of 2012. Most of our marketing is now match-funded by industry partners including British Airways, easyJet, Expedia, P&O and Emirates."
Meanwhile, VisitEngland’s 2015/16grant was not cut at all and remains at £7million.
Chairman Lady Cobham said: "We recognise the public purse is under ever increasing pressure so we are delighted that tourism’s significant contribution to the economy has been recognised.
"Our role is to grow tourism in England. We never lose sight of this goal and we will continue to work closely with Government and the private sector to ensure continued support for the industry."
Bev
Editor in chief Bev Fearis has been a travel journalist for 25 years. She started her career at Travel Weekly, where she became deputy news editor, before joining Business Traveller as deputy editor and launching the magazine’s website. She has also written travel features, news and expert comment for the Guardian, Observer, Times, Telegraph, Boundless and other consumer titles and was named one of the top 50 UK travel journalists by the Press Gazette.
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