HC Ser. : Fourth Report of Session 2002-03: Report, Together with Proceedings of the Committee, Minutes of Evidence and Appendices

The Committee highlights the key economic role of the UK tourism sector as a generator of income and jobs throughout urban and rural areas. However, problems encountered during 2001, such as the Foot and Mouth Disease epidemic and the effects of the September 11 terrorist attacks, have drawn attention to the structural problems within the sector after years of neglect by government. Amongst its findings, the Committee's report notes the serious under-funding of the sector, especially in England. Doubts are expressed regarding the proposed merger of the British Tourist Authority and the English Tourism Council into a single organisation and the lack of consultation involved. There is a need for statutory registration of accommodation providers across the UK. Overall, the Committee recommends that there should be a major rearrangement of departmental responsibility for the tourism sector and clearer ministerial leadership established to ensure that the Government gives the industry the priority it deserves.