PM criticised for Indian tourism trip
Tourism chiefs have reacted to David Cameron’s recent trip to India saying that its APD levels that is deterring tourists.
Mary Rance, chief executive of UKinbound said the Prime Minister should "consider taking urgent action to address the UK’s rising flight taxes".
She claims the taxes make a trip to the UK unaffordable for some Indian families.
VisitBritain stated in a recent press release that France now attracts 20% more visitors from India than the UK. Indian tourist numbers to the UK have dropped from 371,000 in 2010 to 348,000 in 2012.
Mary Rance, chief executive of UKinbound, said: "Visitors from India spend on average £900 per stay in the UK, about 60% more than the average visitor, a considerable contribution to the country’s finances.
"The combination of APD and the cumbersome, expensive visa process are a disincentive for anyone planning to visit the UK and certainly do not help the Prime Minister to convey the message that Britain welcomes businesses and tourists."
She added: "As the Prime Minister considers how he can attract more Indian business to Britain he would be well advised to consider taking urgent action to address the UK’s rising flight taxes."
The overall APD tax take increased significantly on April 1, 2012, after the Government implemented an 8% APD increase. Further rises are planned to take effect from April 1, 2013.
Diane
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