Promoting Coastal Britain 2025-04-03
2025-04-03
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The tourism industry in East Suffolk is valued at £693 million and accounts for over 15% of local jobs, but has been impacted by the pandemic. Pre-pandemic visitor numbers are estimated to be down by 2 million.
I am concerned about the impact on coastal tourism in places such as Southwold, Aldeburgh, and Felixstowe. Can the Minister share with me what he is doing to support these areas?
I am keen to integrate creative industries into the visitor economy more effectively. This includes highlighting the Aldeburgh festival and other cultural attractions in East Suffolk such as Maggi Hambling's work in Saxmundham. We aim to attract 50 million international visitors by 2030, with a focus on encouraging tourists beyond London to visit coastal regions like those in Suffolk.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific financial support or marketing initiatives for East Suffolk were not detailed.
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
The Minister was previously quick to respond on the need for a national tourism strategy. The question seeks confirmation that this includes Northern Ireland, with specific mention of Strangford Lough and Ards Peninsula.
Will the Minister ensure discussions to improve coastal tourism include Northern Ireland? There are many attractions such as Strangford Lough and the Irish Sea to attract visitors.
I am working on a national tourism strategy that should cover all parts of the UK by year-end. This includes addressing challenges faced by coastal regions across the country, including Northern Ireland where creative industries are vital to its tourism economy.
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Assessment & feedback
No specific timeline or funding details were provided for integrating Northern Ireland into national efforts.
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
There are concerns within the tourism sector about a purported cut to VisitBritain's budget. This question seeks clarity on this issue, with the aim of supporting government ambitions for UK visitor numbers.
The Government have committed to 50 million visits by 2030. However, there is concern in the tourism sector over a reported cut to the VisitBritain budget. Will the Minister confirm whether there will be any cuts and how much?
I am discussing funds that might be available for the GREAT campaign in the next year. We face financial challenges but are serious about developing a UK-wide visitor economy strategy by incorporating ideas from stakeholders such as the hon Gentleman.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific budget figures and cuts were not confirmed, only that discussions are ongoing.
Response accuracy