Calls for government to do more to support UK tourism

A new report published by the British Chamber of Commerce has highlighted how the UK tourism industry is not reaching its full potential and is in danger of slipping behind its international competitors.

Produced in association with Travelodge, the report, 'Backing UK Tourism: Destination Recovery', began by saying the industry should be monitored by the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills (DBIS) as opposed to the current set-up with the Department of Culture Media and Sport (DCMS).

Dr Adam Marshall, director of Policy at the British Chambers of Commerce, said: "Tourism will play a key role in Britain's future economy, but the industry needs stronger, clearer support from Government to reach its full potential. This is a sector which can rapidly create jobs, even in the current economic conditions, yet it suffers from an extremely confused support structure. Ministers need to recognise the potential of the industry and make necessary reforms, which will help underpin the UK's economic recovery."

Grant Hearn, chief executive of Travelodge, added: "Reforming the support structure in place for tourism will free the industry from its current constraints and allow it to flourish. It is one of the few sectors of the economy which is both currently creating employment opportunities and can contribute a lot more. If that is to happen however a sea-change in attitude within Whitehall towards our industry must take place.

"Tourism should be removed from DCMS and the responsibility for delivery given to DBIS, supported by a full-time Minister tasked with policy co-ordination. Urgent reform can then take place, freeing up VisitBritain to concentrate solely on promoting the UK abroad. If the Regional Development Agencies, domestic tourist bodies and local authorities then had to report directly into DBIS, I have no doubt we would see a far better use of the public money available for tourism promotion."

Tourism is the fifth largest sector of the UK economy, employing 1.4 million people and generating revenues of £86 billion.

Words: Clare Riley

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