§ Mr. HoyleTo ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport what is the projected annual revenue from tourism in the north-west in each of the next three years. [68475]
§ Janet Anderson[holding answer 1 February 1999]: While we do not make detailed predictions of what future earnings from tourism may be for any region of the UK, an increase on the 1997 total revenue of £1,490 million is expected. One of the aims of our new strategy, to be published on 26 February 1999, will be to ensure that tourism delivers the greatest possible benefits both to local communities and the economy as a whole.
§ Mr. HoyleTo ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport what assessment he has made of the benefits which result in the north-west from Government funding to the North West Tourist Board; and what checks are made to see whether value for money is achieved. [68474]
§ Janet Anderson[holding answer 1 February 1999]: The North West Tourist Board receives Government funding through the English Tourist Board (ETB) which is responsible for ensuring that it is spent effectively delivering the programmes agreed. Clear measurement of performance and delivery is required.
As we announced on 14 December 1998, as well as establishing a new national strategic body for tourism in England, we shall be directing more resources for the support of tourism in the English regions.
§ Mr. HoyleTo ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport what plans he has to bring in grants to create new jobs and attractions in the tourist industry in the north-west. [68477]
§ Janet Anderson[holding answer 1 February 1999]: My Department has no plans to introduce any new grants. However, tourism in the north-west has benefited, both directly and indirectly, from National Lottery funding (nearly £450 million in total has gone to the region) and from support under the European Regional Development Fund.