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Tourism Industry

20 March 2025

Lead MP

Blake Stephenson
Mid Bedfordshire
Con

Responding Minister

Chris Bryant

Tags

Brexit
Word Count: 13631
Other Contributors: 11

At a Glance

Blake Stephenson raised concerns about tourism industry in Westminster Hall. A government minister responded.

Key Requests to Government:

The Government should provide funding to ensure that tourism is considered in English devolution initiatives and resist local tourism taxes as they would make the UK less competitive, introducing additional costs and confusion for holidaymakers.

How the Debate Unfolded

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

Lead Contributor

Mid Bedfordshire
Opened the debate
Tourism in Mid Bedfordshire is underrepresented and has a domestic tourism economy of just £250 million, with an international tourism economy of only £100 million despite having attractions such as Wrest Park, Whipsnade Zoo, Woburn Safari Park, Center Parcs Woburn Forest, Wyboston Lakes Resort, Luton Hoo and the potential for a Universal Studios theme park.

Government Response

Chris Bryant
The Minister for Creative Industries, Arts and Tourism
Government Response
The Minister assured that he is committed to supporting tourism and highlighted plans for Universal Studios theme park. He also addressed concerns regarding post-Brexit issues in the art market, noting recent efforts by DCMS and Treasury to ease restrictions.
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.