§ Mr. Peter AinsworthTo ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport what assessment he has made of the effect of a rise in the crime rate on the tourist industry. [128814]
§ Mr. Chris SmithThe vast majority of tourists to Britain have a safe and enjoyable visit. Misleading comparisons of crime in Britain with that in the United States are of course unhelpful; but we expect to welcome many overseas visitors to Britain this year, four million of whom are expected to come from the United States alone. The Government are, of course, determined to tackle violent crime and are providing resources to address the issue.