HC Deb 26 January 2001 vol 361 cc766-7W
Mr. Steen

To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport if he will assess the impact on tourism of the Slapton/Start Bay road remaining closed during summer 2001. [147287]

Janet Anderson

No decision has been made on whether the closed section of the Slapton/Start Bay road between the Monument and Streetgate will remain closed for the summer. This is a matter for Devon County Council's Local Highways Authority. The impact on tourism is one of a number of issues that all the relevant local and regional authorities will be considering in discussions with the other bodies and organisations with an interest, including English Nature and the owners of the adjacent land.

Mr. Steen

To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport if he will estimate the increase in the number of tourists visiting Slapton beaches and Start Bay to view the recent storm damage; and if he will make additional funds available to the local authorities to cater for such additional tourists. [147289]

Janet Anderson

We have no plans to estimate the increase in the number of tourists to this area and no additional funds will be made available.