Commons Sense

House of Commons · Adjournment Debate

Golf Tourism

27 January 2021 · 1 other contributor

Opened by Wendy Chamberlain Lib Dem North East Fife

Culture, Media & SportBusiness & Trade

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Wendy Chamberlain raised concerns about golf tourism in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.

Key points

  • The hon. Member Wendy Chamberlain highlighted the importance of golf tourism in her constituency and across the UK, focusing on the economic impact and the celebration of Old Tom Morris's bicentenary.
  • The pandemic has caused a significant financial crisis for local businesses and small operators in the golf tourism sector, particularly due to a decrease in international tourists from America.
  • The Minister for Sport and Tourism acknowledged the role of golf in UK tourism and outlined the Government's support measures for businesses through grants and fiscal assistance, emphasizing the reopening of sports facilities in line with public health guidelines.

How the debate unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.

Opened the debate

Wendy Chamberlain Lib Dem North East Fife

The hon. Member Wendy Chamberlain of North East Fife highlighted the importance of golf tourism in her constituency and across the UK, celebrating Old Tom Morris’s bicentenary as an opportunity to reflect on golf’s rich history and its economic contribution. The pandemic has devastated local businesses and small operators who rely heavily on international tourists, especially from America, leading to a significant financial crisis. Wendy called for immediate support measures such as targeted grants and a resilience fund as proposed by UKinbound.

Other contributors (1)
  • Ian Paisley DUP North Antrim

    Praised the economic impact of golf tourism on Northern Ireland, particularly highlighting the Open Championship in Royal Portrush.

Government Response

Nigel Huddleston

The Minister for Sport and Tourism acknowledged the significant role golf plays in UK tourism, praising Wendy Chamberlain’s passionate speech. He outlined the Government's efforts to support businesses during the pandemic through various fiscal measures and grants, emphasising that reopening sports facilities is a priority but must align with public health needs. The minister also noted ongoing work on a global travel taskforce and a tourism recovery plan to address the sector’s challenges and promote safe international travel when conditions allow.

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