HC Deb 28 June 1956 vol 555 cc684-5
35. Mr. C. Hughes

asked the President of the Board of Trade what steps he is taking to promote and encourage the tourist trade in Wales and Monmouthshire.

42. Mr. Gower

asked the President of the Board of Trade if he will take steps designed to increase the number of tourists visiting Wales; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. P. Thorneycroft

The promotion of the tourist industry in any one part of this country is best done by attracting overseas visitors to the country as a whole. The Government gives financial support to the British Travel and Holidays Association for this purpose. The Association contributes to the cost of the overseas publicity done by the Welsh Tourist Board.

Mr. Hughes

Is the President aware that owing to lack of money the activities of the Welsh Tourist Board were severely curtailed last year? Is he aware of the great contribution which tourism can make to the Welsh economy, and in particular towards alleviating the grave unemployment which exists in some parts of the Principality? Will he consult the Minister for Welsh Affairs to see whether something cannot be done to improve matters?

Mr. Thorneycroft

I agree with the hon. Member about the importance of tourism, nowhere more than in Wales and Monmouthshire, but at the same time we are concerned with attracting overseas visitors to this country, and not merely United Kingdom visitors into Wales.

Mr. Gower

Does not my right hon. Friend agree that the Welsh Tourist Board has done a remarkable job with very slender resources? Is it not the case that in Scotland the Secretary of State gives substantial help to the Scottish Tourist Board? Would it not be good business to add to the estimated 100,000 overseas visitors who came to Wales last year by giving additional help to the Welsh Tourist Board?

Mr. K. Thompson

They all leave on Sundays.

Mr. Thorneycroft

I certainly agree that the Welsh Tourist Board has done a good job.