HC Deb 21 March 1939 vol 345 cc1093-4
9. Mr. Malcolm MacMillan

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what special measures were taken during the past year to promote the tourist industry in the Isles and Highlands of Scotland; and what was the total amount of money spent in the Government's Scottish tourist industry campaign?

Mr. Colville

As regards publicity abroad, the activities of the Travel and Industrial Development Association of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, which is assisted by a Government grant, cover the whole of the United Kingdom. The association advertises the attractions of Scotland, including the Highlands and Islands, through its offices abroad, by participation in exhibitions and fairs overseas and by means of films, photographs, guide books and descriptive literature, in the supply of which the Scottish Travel Association shares. As regards publicity in this country, the hon. Member will be familiar with the work of the Scottish Travel Association, with the advantages resulting from last year's Empire Exhibition, with the propaganda work of local authorities, railway and steamship companies, and other bodies, and with the benefits to the tourist industry of such Government-assisted schemes as the programme of Highland road works.

Mr. MacMillan

Will the right hon. Gentleman consider asking the Treasury to make additional grants for the purpose of advertising Scottish attractions, which is very important to the Highlands and Islands?

Mr. Colville

The grant to the Travel and Industrial Development Association of Great Britain was recently increased, and I understand that discussions have been taking place between that body and the Scottish Travel Association.