§ Mr. SimmondsTo ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport if she will make a statement on the review of the National Quality Assurance Standards Scheme for serviced accommodation. [114466]
§ Dr. HowellsQuality is the foundation of a successful tourism industry. The industry must provide good quality accommodation that meets visitor expectations. We want to ensure that the National Quality Assurance Standards (NQAS) schemes are easily understood by visitors, and that it is a scheme that owners of hotels and guest-houses want to be part of.
A two-part review of the (NQAS) schemes for serviced accommodation is now under way. It will involve consultation with relevant stakeholders including the AA and RAC, relevant national and regional tourism bodies, trade organisations, and a range of commercial operators.
The first part is examining the differences that exist between the schemes in England, Scotland and Wales. The main aim is to reach a view on whether common schemes are feasible. This part of the review is being led jointly by the three National Tourist Boards. The second part will relate to England only, and is being led by VisitBritain. It will look at the management of the schemes, covering issues such as assessment, administration, recruitment of businesses, and promotion to consumers.