§ Mr. Ridsdaleasked the Secretary of State for Trade why no help has been given to the East Anglian tourist authority under section 4 of the Development of Tourism Act 1969.
§ Mr. Meacher:Because funds are limited, assistance under section 4 of the Development of Tourism Act 1969 is at present confined to the assisted areas, which have the greatest need of its economic benefits. My right hon. Friend has, however, undertaken to review the eligible areas in two to three years' time. Nevertheless, the major part of Government financial aid to tourism is spent on publicity, marketing and research to the benefit of the country as a whole, including East Anglia. From these funds, the English Tourist Board also contributes to the income of the non-statutory regional tourist boards. In the last financial year the East Anglia regional tourist board received over £50,000 from the ETB.
§ Mr. Ridsdaleasked the Secretary of State for Trade how much help has been given under section 4 of the Development 914W of Tourism Act 1969; where this help has gone; and for what specific purposes.
§ Mr. Meacher:Section 4 assistance approved or recommended for approval since the start of the scheme amounts to £10,217,000. The regional breakdown is:
£000 Cumbria 2,915 North-West 402 Northumbria 2,671 West Country 2,472 Yorkshire and Humberside 1,732 East Midlands 25 The types of projects receiving aid include serviced and self-catering accommodation, restaurants, conference facilities, tourist attractions, sporting facilities and amenities.