§ Mr. WallaceTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland how much was spent by(a) Scottish Development Agency and (b) the Highlands and Islands Development Board in promoting tourism and the tourist industry in each of the last five financial years.
§ Mr. LangThe most recent figures available are as follows:
(a) Scottish Development Agency Financial year Expenditure£ million 1984–85 0.3 1985–86 0.3 1986–87 3.7 1987–88 0.1 1988–89 Nil
(b) Highlands and Islands Development Board Financial year Expenditure£ million 1984–85 8.2 1985–86 9.0 1986–87 8.7 1987–88 8.2 1988–89 8.8 Notes:
1. The Scottish Development Agency figures cover loan and equity finance for tourism projects which meet its normal investment criteria and tourist projects under schemes for urban and rural development. In addition, a number of feasibility studies, land engineering and property development projects funded by the agency may have tourism benefits.
2. Provision by the Highlands and Islands Development board is through its marketing and projects programmes and under its section 8 assistance scheme. The above figures do not include expenditure on salaries and administration.
§ Mr. WallaceTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he anticipates roles for the tourist industry and those involved in promoting tourism within the proposed local enterprise companies, Scottish Enterprise and Highlands and Islands Enterprise; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. LangI expect local enterprise companies to reflect the importance of tourism in their areas. Scottish Enterprise and Highlands and Islands Enterprise will be able to draw upon tourism expertise in the same way as the Highlands and Islands Development Board, the Scottish Development Agency and the Training Agency.