§ Mr. Geoffrey Robinsonasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what proposals he has to encourage tourism by American visitors in the regions.
§ Mr. ButcherMy department encourages tourism to and within Britain through the work of the statutory tourist boards—the British Tourist Authority and the English Tourist Board. It is mainly for the industry to develop facilities, attractions and hold events to encourage tourists to visit particular regions. Support for this work is provided by the English Tourist Board and the non-statutory regional tourist boards through grants under section 4 of the Development of Tourism Act 1969 and by way of promotional activity within Britain.
The BTA feature a wide variety of attractions throughout Britain in their overseas promotional campaigns. In 1985 the BTA will be continuing with its successful theme of Britain's heritage with numerous events being staged throughout the country. Britain's heritage has a major appeal in the American market.