Lib Dems aim to push tourism up political agenda
A permanent Cabinet sub-committee on tourism and the return of the English Tourist Board are among proposals put forward by the Liberal Democrats.
The party says such measures would help revitalise the British tourism industry which it claims has been neglected by Labour.
Measures voted on at the Liberal Democrat autumn conference in Brighton include:
· Establishing a permanent Cabinet sub-committee on tourism
· Creating an English Tourist Board like those for Scotland and Wales
· Improving public transport
· Developing local destination management organisations to help create effective tourism strategies
Liberal Democrat shadow culture, media and sport secretary Don Foster said: “Labour has neglected tourism in this country for far too long. They’ve made cuts to VisitBritain’s budget, hiked the price of visas, and repeatedly delayed the Olympic tourism plan.
“Only the Liberal Democrats have a clear strategy and vision for ensuring a sustainable future for tourism in this country and reversing years of government neglect.
“By investing in public transport, strengthening the role of tourism within government, and improving energy efficiency, we can develop a world class tourism industry in this country.
“The message is clear. The Liberal Democrats are the party who recognise how important tourism is – our policies will ensure that the 2012 Olympics provide a sustainable legacy for everyone.”
The party claims that Britain’s global share of the tourism market has fallen by 16% over the last 20 years, with an annual tourism deficit of £18 billion.
by Phil Davies
Phil Davies
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