HC Deb 03 March 1997 vol 291 cc500-1W
Mr. John Greenway

To ask the Secretary of state for National Heritage what action she is taking to promote training in the tourism industry. [16706]

Mr. Sproat

Tourism has enormous potential for job creation: it creates one in five of all new jobs. As stated in our October publication, "People Working in Tourism and Hospitality," to deliver good service—more of the industry must recruit and retain the right people and equip them with the skills that they need. Our comprehensive new strategy for tourism, success through partnership, which my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State launched on 5 February, carries this work forward. It is clear from the many letters and comments that we have had already, that the industry particularly welcomes the fact that this is a joint initiative with them, with key targets and specific points for action on many aspects of tourism. As announced in the strategy, next month we shall issue a practical guide specifically for small tourism businesses which will include advice on training and developing staff.

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