Tourism Sector Covid-19 Support 2020-11-05
2020-11-05
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Direct Answer
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Context
The tourism sector has been severely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to financial difficulties and uncertainty.
What steps his Department is taking to support the tourism sector during the covid-19 outbreak. The speaker highlights the economic impact of the virus on tourism and seeks specific measures from the government.
Covid-19 has had a severe impact on tourism, which is why we have provided a range of targeted measures to see the sector through this period. On top of the Government's wider economic support package, we have provided business rates relief and grants for many in the sector, as well as a cut in VAT for tourism and hospitality activities until the end of March.
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Assessment & feedback
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Q2
Direct Answer
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Context
Harrogate and Knaresborough has a significant number of hospitality employees, including those working in bed and breakfasts and guesthouses, who have been severely impacted by the closure of the exhibition sector.
As Harrogate and Knaresborough is in the top 10% for hospitality employment, there are many teams at B&Bs and guest houses suffering. With a lack of international visitors due to closures, what plans does the Government have to promote domestic tourism?
We currently need people to stay at home, but when holidays are permitted again, we will work with VisitBritain, VisitEngland and local partners to champion the UK's diverse tourism offer. We will provide guidance about when people can safely go on holiday, as demonstrated through initiatives such as the “We're good to go” industry standard mark.
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Q3
Direct Answer
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Context
New government restrictions until December 2nd have caused significant worry among North Devon's tourism and hospitality businesses.
With the announcement of new restrictions, what support will be available to my constituency's tourism and hospitality businesses that are understandably worried about the months ahead?
There are significant packages of financial support in place, including extensions to the furlough scheme and self-employed support. Businesses will receive grants worth up to £3,000 per month under the local restrictions support grant scheme. An additional £1.1 billion is being given to local authorities for broader business assistance.
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