§ 6. Sir A. Meyerasked the Secretary of State for Wales whether, in view of the increasing importance of the tourist industry to the Welsh economy, he will take steps to institute a scheme of awards for services to the Welsh tourist industry.
§ Mr. Gibson-WattNo, Sir. The annual award of the Festival of Wales Trophy initiated by the Wales Tourist Board appears to be working well.
§ Sir A. MeyerWill my hon. Friend consider that in this, as in so many other matters, the Wales Tourist Board might give a lead and example to other tourist boards? Would not this be yet another needed opportunity to raise the esteem in which the tourist industry stands and emphasise its capacity to make a year-round contribution to solving the unemployment problem in Wales?
§ Mr. Gibson-WattI agree with my hon. Friend that the Wales Tourist Board is leading the way in this country. The recipients of the trophies—one given in 1970 to the narrow gauge railways of Wales and the other given in 1971 to the Broad haven countryside unit—were very well chosen.
§ Mr. Gwynoro JonesWill the Secretary of State undertake to consider whether it will be desirable for the tourist industry to qualify for the selective assistance which will be available under the proposed Industry Bill in view of the importance of the tourist industry to Wales?
§ Mr. Gibson-WattThat is another question, but I am sure that if the hon. Gentleman tables it he will get an answer.