§ Sir Hector Monroasked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will assess the effect on tourism in Scotland of the increase in the price of petrol recently announced by the oil companies.
§ Mr. YoungerThe majority of holidays taken in Scotland involve the use of passenger cars, but the cost of petrol generally forms a small proportion, estimated at around 10 to 15 per cent. of the overall cost of the holiday. The recent increase in petrol prices is estimated to add less than 1 per cent. to that figure; the price rise is, therefore, unlikely to prove a serious disincentive to potential visitors. Recent announcements by the oil companies indicate that the increase in petrol prices will not be as severe as first anticipated.
§ Sir Hector Monroasked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will assess the impact of the increase in the price of petrol announced by the oil companies on rural areas of Scotland.
§ Mr. YoungerI recognise the importance of transport costs in rural areas and understand my hon. Friend's concern. The price increases announced recently are however the result of commercial decisions by the oil companies. Assessment of their impact in particular areas would not be straightforward.