Government policies have hindered the recovery of inbound tourism, a new report says.
A report by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport Committee finds Government policy has made the industry’s job harder rather than easier, making it more difficult for visitors to visit and are less likely to spend.
It says the removal of tax-free shopping for tourists was short-sighted, as was the reduction in marketing spend.
There is a ‘worrying’ lack of money for marketing and the inbound sector is too reliant on London.
Joss Croft, CEO, UKinbound said “We warmly welcome the committee’s findings which highlights serious Government shortcomings and failures but also presents clear recommendations”
“We support every recommendation presented, but what we need now is action and a clear commitment from Government to support the UK’s inbound visitor economy.”
This includes undertaking a full cost-benefit assessment before deciding on the future of tax-free shopping,” Croft added
It is the UK’s third largest service export, worth 9% of GDP.
