HC Deb 16 May 1962 vol 659 cc1332-3
35. Mr. MacArthur

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he has now received the views of the Scottish Tourist Board concerning the imposition of a tax on tourists; and what proposals he now has for introducing a levy on those who stay in Scottish hotels.

Mr. Leburn

While the Scottish Tourist Board participated in the discussions which resulted in the proposals for a Scottish Tourist Fund, my right hon. Friend has not as yet received any expression of the Board's own views. We are carefully watching reactions; but no decision has yet been reached about implementation, which would of course require legislation.

Mr. MacArthur

While more funds to improve tourist facilities are needed, does not my hon. Friend agree that proposals put forward recently are, to put it mildly, distasteful? Is it not true that the levy would fall particularly heavily on Scottish families who already have little enough money to spare for their holidays? Does he not agree that taxation is widespread enough without this added imposition?

Mr. Leburn

I realise that the proposals have not been greeted with universal approval, but support for them has been expressed. My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Scotland is watching the position carefully. I think that my hon. Friend will be encouraged to know that of the 5,426,000 visitors last year, some 3½ million came from England and Wales, 620,000 from overseas and about 1,300,000 from Scotland.

Mr. Rankin

As we have just heard that the number of tourists coming to Scotland is increasing, will the hon. Gentleman assure us that he will take no action which would in any way disturb or impede that increase?

Mr. Leburn

My right hon. Friend has made quite clear that he is awaiting the reactions and the views of the Scottish Tourist Board on this matter, and I think that it would be right for him to do so.