Industry backs British Tourism Week
Hundreds of leisure parks, piers and attractions from around the country are backing British Tourism Week which kicks off today (Monday).
A Parliamentary lunch of the British Association of Leisure Parks, Piers & Attractions (BALPPA) at the House of Commons, is due to attract 60 members of the industry and 30 MPs supporting the initiative which aims to raise the profile of the £85 billion visitor economy.
BALPPA chief executive Colin Dawson said: “We have today launched an independent study financed by BALPPA which produces a compelling case for a reduction in the rate of VAT charged for admission to visitor attractions and visitor accommodation.
“The adoption of the proposals contained in the Study will provide a much needed boost to British tourism in the fight to reduce the ever increasing tourism trading deficit which now stands at a staggering £19 billion.â€
More than 70 different events are planned for British Tourism Week. Organisers are encouraging every region and destination to arrange something to help businesses or raise awareness of tourism experiences among consumers.
Tom Wright, chief executive of VisitBritain and co-chairman of British Tourism Week’s multi-sector steering committee, said: “The support of BALPPA’s members is invaluable recognition for our ambition to raise the profile of our £85 billion tourism industry. It is yet another positive sign that the private and public sectors are prepared to unite in generating a lasting legacy.â€
This year British Tourism Week recognises that 80% of industry success comes from domestic visitors and that, with increasing competition from overseas destinations, it can do more to encourage Britons to holiday at home. With Easter arriving soon after British Tourism Week, consumers will be urged to get out and enjoy a wide variety of holiday experiences.
Stephen Dowd, co-chairman of British Tourism Week and chief executive of UKinbound, said: “BALPPA’s members represent attractions and destinations that are hugely popular with visitors from home and overseas and support the jobs and livelihoods of millions of people.
“We hope that if nothing else, MPs, the media, opinion-leaders and consumers will take time for a day visit or overnight stay during British Tourism Week.â€
The British Travel Trade Fair, starting tomorrow in Birmingham, remains one of the core events of the week.
by Phil Davies
Phil Davies
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