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Tourism Industry: Devon and Cornwall
23 November 2022
Lead MP
Kevin Foster
Torbay
Con
Responding Minister
Not recorded
Tags
EconomyTaxationCulture, Media & SportEnergyBusiness & Trade
Word Count: 4374
Other Contributors: 2
At a Glance
Kevin Foster raised concerns about tourism industry: devon and cornwall in Westminster Hall. Response awaited from government.
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:
Lead Contributor
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.
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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Assessment & feedback
Summary accuracy
About Westminster Hall Debates
Westminster Hall debates are a chance for MPs to raise important issues affecting their constituents and get a response from a government minister. Unlike Prime Minister's Questions, these debates are more in-depth and collaborative. The MP who secured the debate speaks first, other MPs can contribute, and a minister responds with the government's position.