Caravan enthusiasts could eventually be affected by the debate that is raging over calls to establish a tourism minister role in the UK.
The first ever manifesto from ABTA – The Travel Association suggested that the industry would benefit from having a dedicated parliamentary voice, but not everyone agrees that this is necessary.
Not only have travel industry stakeholders been contributing their opinions on the matter, politicians have also been discussing the possible pros and cons of such a move.
Yesterday’s (March 17th) Best of Britain and Ireland Trade Forum event saw a number of politicians discuss the issue during the Tourism Society’s Question Time.
Shadow secretary of state for culture, media and sport Don Foster said that creating the position would not benefit the industry – a view shared by culture, creative industries and tourism minister Margaret Hodge.
Mr Foster said what the industry really needs in order to survive and flourish is the full support of the government.
However, Conservative Tourism Taskforce chairman John Lewis explained that his party likes the idea of the tourism sector having a “strong voice”.
Mr Lewis added that it is unclear whether ministers currently understand the needs of the industry and suggested that having a dedicated guardian could help remedy this.
