HC Deb 05 July 1956 vol 555 cc1521-2
19. Sir R. Robinson

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that the number of first-class hotels in London is now inadequate to cater for the needs of overseas tourists visiting the United Kingdom; and what steps he is taking to see that adequate hotel facilities are available to meet the growing demand.

26. Mr. Gower

asked the President of the Board of Trade if he is aware that the increase in the number of overseas tourists and United Kingdom visitors to Wales has revealed the inadequacy of suitable hotel accommodation in the Principality; and what steps he is taking to facilitate the provision of adequate hotel accommodation to cater for the increasing demand.

Mr. P. Thorneycroft

My Department will be as helpful as it can to anyone who is interested in providing additional hotel accommodation anywhere in Great Britain, which is intended primarily to cater for overseas visitors.

Sir R. Robinson

In view of the continued shortage of hotel space in London, will my right hon. Friend consider calling the attention of American capitalists to this very useful contribution which they could make to our economy?

Mr. Thorneycroft

I have been in touch with a number of Americans, some of whom, though not all, were interested in investing capital in this way.

Mr. Gower

What powers has my right hon. Friend to help? He said that his Department would be "helpful". Will he bear in mind the Empire Games and other events which are taking place?

Mr. Thorneycroft

My powers certainly do not include putting up public funds for the provision of hotel accommodation.

Mr. Bottomley

Cannot representations be made by the right hon. Gentleman to the Minister of Works so that hotels and buildings of this kind can be provided rather than new petrol stations and other inessential buildings?

Mr. Thorneycroft

Naturally, the Minister of Works and I keep in contact at all times.