HC Deb 26 November 1964 vol 702 cc1462-3
28. Sir J. Lucas

asked the President of the Board of Trade how much foreign currency was involved by British tourists going abroad in the last convenient period of 12 months; how much British currency was purchased by foreign or Commonwealth tourists visiting this country in the same period; and what action he will take to make this country more attractive to tourists.

The Minister of State, Board of Trade (Mr. Roy Mason)

In the 12 months ending 30th June, 1964. United Kingdom visitors spent £255 million in overseas countries, and overseas visitors spent £210 million in the United Kingdom. In addition, there was a net gain of the order of £70 million in fares to and from this country.

The Government's chosen instrument for attracting more tourists to Britain is the British Travel Association, which encourages and co-ordinates the activities of the Tourist Boards, the tourist trades and the local authorities in holiday resort areas.

Sir J. Lucas

Will the hon. Gentleman suggest to the British Travel Association that visitors should be informed that we have hunt point-to-point meetings from February to May which give a very good idea of British country life? No charge is made to visitors, entrance is free, one sees a real bit of country life, everyone is friendly, all classes mix together, and they are excellent institutions. If they were publicised, it would do an awful lot of good.

Mr. Mason

I am sure that the British Travel Association is aware of that. If it is not, I shall draw it to its attention.