§ 21. Mr. Adleyasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry when he intends to bring into operation that part of Part III of the Development of Tourism Act relating to registration and classification; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Michael HeseltineA statement will be made about this matter as soon as possible.
§ Mr. AdleyI thank my hon. Friend, but is he aware that consultations on 1056 this point have now been going on for three years? One of the problems recently concerning the Fire Precautions Act and the lack of statistics has emanated from the lack of knowledge about the number of hotels. Although it may not be his direct responsibility, will my hon. Friend do his best within the Department to take a lead in the matter and get something moving?
§ Mr. HeseltineIt would be inappropriate for me to take a lead in the matter, but I will see that my hon. Friend's views are conveyed to my colleague concerned.
§ Mr. MilneWill the hon. Gentleman look at the question of appointing a Minister for Tourism in order to facilitate the arrangements for regulation and the other matters in connection with the hotel industry and with travel and tourism? The appointment of such a Minister is an absolute necessity.
§ Mr. HeseltineThe Labour Government refused to appoint such a Minister and we believe that the arrangements we have in the Department are well able to cope with these problems.
§ Mr. MasonAs the hon. Member for Bristol, North-East (Mr. Adley) said, all the consultations with the interests concerned have taken place since the English Tourist Board started its operations and they are in favour of registration and classification, and particularly of notification of prices. Is that what is holding up the Government from taking a decision in view of the forthcoming value added tax?
§ Mr. HeseltineNo. There is not yet agreement between the various tourist boards on all the matters involved. We are deliberating on extensive questions and it is important to try to reach agreement.