§ Nick HarveyTo ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport what assessment she has made of her Department's promotion of quality tourism development which(a) is economically, environmentally and socially sustainable and (b) supports the Government's employment objectives; and if she will make a statement. [83744]
§ Dr. HowellsGood quality accommodation, attractions and service are all vital pre-requisites for a flourishing, sustainable tourism industry. The existing accommodation quality assurance schemes are good but have insufficient impact on the consumer, and so we intend shortly to commission a review of quality to address that. We are already pursuing our Fitness for Purpose initiative to tackle quality issues at less satisfactory premises, to provide assurance to customers that sub-standard accommodation will not be tolerated. We are also working with other Departments on establishing a Sector Skills Council for the tourism,542W hospitality and leisure sector, and in increasing the number of New Deal clients who find work in the hospitality industry. This will help build a more positive image of the sector and attract and retain good quality staff.