Commons Sense

House of Commons · Westminster Hall

Tourism Industry: Devon and Cornwall

23 November 2022 · 2 other contributors · 4,374 words

Opened by Kevin Foster Con Torbay

Responding minister: Not recorded

EconomyEnergyBusiness & Trade

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

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Kevin Foster raised concerns about tourism industry: devon and cornwall in Westminster Hall. Response awaited from government.

Key points

  • The tourism industry in Devon and Cornwall faces challenges due to rising energy prices, increased business rates, and competition from short-term holiday lets.
  • Tourism represents 10% of employment in Devon and 20% in Cornwall, highlighting its economic importance.
  • The lead MP asks for a review of the energy price guarantee and longer-term reform of business rates.

Key requests to Government

The lead MP asks for a review of the energy price guarantee, longer-term reform of business rates, real engagement on future support schemes for energy costs, and encouragement of consumer use of hospitality businesses. He also calls for a date to publish the planned review of short-term holiday lets under planning regulations.

How the debate unfolded

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

Opened the debate

Kevin Foster Con Torbay

The tourism industry in Devon and Cornwall faces significant challenges including rising energy prices, increased business rates, competition from Airbnb-style operations, and consumer confidence issues. The sector is crucial to the local economy, with tourism representing 10% of employment in Devon and 20% in Cornwall. Businesses are struggling to cope with dramatic increases in utility costs, food and maintenance bills, and other expenses that cannot be recovered through price hikes alone.

Other contributors (2)
  • Richard Foord Lib Dem Honiton and Sidmouth

    Agrees with the concern over unrestricted growth of short-term holiday lets, citing more than 8,000 Airbnb properties in Devon. Welcomes the Government review but seeks a date for its publication.

  • Trevor Shonick Con Torridge and West Devon

    The MP expressed support for the lead MP's initiative, highlighting the importance of addressing issues like business rates and energy costs to ensure the sustainability of the tourism industry in Devon and Cornwall.

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