§ 3.1 p.m.
§ Lord Gainford asked Her Majesty's Government:
§ What action they are taking to promote the awareness of tourism as a career.
§ The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Department of Employment (Lord Strathclyde)My Lords, the employment department works with other government departments and the tourist boards to promote the many and varied career opportunities that exist in tourism.
§ Lord GainfordMy Lords, I thank the Minister for that Answer. Has he any information on what schools are doing to encourage young people to take up tourism as a career?
§ Lord StrathclydeMy Lords, the picture is most encouraging. There is a GCSE on travel and tourism. Various degree and polytechnic courses, catering colleges, and the industry-backed initiative COMETT promote tourism and travel careers within schools.
§ Lord Ponsonby of ShulbredeMy Lords, the noble Lord referred to the responsibility for tourism which is fragmented among five government departments. Is he satisfied that this fragmented responsibility will produce the best results?
§ Lord StrathclydeMy Lords, yes. The fragmentation is acceptable so long as there are good communications. Currently there are good communications. I believe, therefore, that the various initiatives will be successful.