§ 29. Mr. HoyleTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will make a statement on the impact of section 4 tourism grants in Scotland. [28097]
§ Mr. WilsonThe section 4 scheme was suspended in Scotland in 1993. From that date, support for business development in the tourism sector has been provided by Scottish Enterprise, Highlands and Islands Enterprise and their networks of Local Enterprise Companies. While the section 4 scheme was successful in raising standards throughout the tourism industry, I believe that the present arrangements for assistance to the industry are simpler and more relevant to its present day needs. These give the 579W industry access to the agencies responsible for delivering a wider range of support including business advice and training as well as direct assistance for capital projects.