HC Deb 07 February 1962 vol 653 cc420-1
32. Sir D. Robertson

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what representations he has received about the taxing of tourists in Scotland; and if he will give an assurance that, in considering such representations, he will take into account the need to develop tourism in the Highlands, and the traditional hospitality of that area.

Mr. Maclay

The suggestion for such a tax came up at a conference recently organised by the Scottish Tourist Board and it is considering it. The only representation which I have had came from the hon. Gentleman himself. The Answer to the second part of his Question is "Yes, Sir".

Sir D. Robertson

Does not the right hon. Gentleman appoint the Scottish Tourist Board? Is he not aware that a proposal of this kind to tax very welcome visitors, wherever they come from, is wholly repugnant to people in Scotland? Would it not injure the tourist trade which is the Government's economic policy for the Highlands?

Mr. Maclay

I feel that it would be only right to await the Scottish Tourist Board's views before attempting to come to a conclusion on this important matter.

Mr. Stodart

Is it not the case that in several countries where tourism is one of the most successful industries a small taxe de séjour is imposed and there is no feeling of any hostility on the part of visitors because of it?

Sir D. Robertson

Is it not also the case that the country which the hon. Member for Edinburgh, West (Mr. Stodart) has in mind, which I think is Switzerland, is in a position entirely different from that of Scotland? It is surrounded by great nations whose nationals can walk, drive or go by train over the border and do not have to cross the Channel or undertake a long journey.

Mr. Maclay

This is obviously a matter which allows differences of view.

Mr. Hoy

Is it not complete nonsense to think of taxing people who come to certain parts of the country and excluding all the rest? Why does the right hon. Gentleman not say that it is nonsense and have done with it?

Mr. Maclay

I am not prepared to say that it is nonsense before the Tourist Board, which is doing invaluable work in attracting visitors to Scotland, has expressed its views.