The Liberal Democrats have unveiled a series of plans to boost tourism in the north after the first fall in figures since 2012.
The region suffered a 15% drop in yearly visitor spend last year, while visitor numbers and the average length of holidays also fell.
"Tourism is the lifeblood of the UK economy, and the North West welcomes people from around the world every year to beloved holiday destinations like Blackpool and the Lake District," said North West Liberal Democrat MEP Jane Brophy.
"It’s absolutely vital we keep the North as the capital of Britain’s tourism industry.
"These plans will ensure Northern destinations and attractions benefit from improved transport links, reduced VAT rates, increased regional marketing and, critically, a re-balancing of the London-obsessed economy.
"No matter the Brexit distractions from Labour and the Tories, the North West has so much to offer, and the world needs to see it!"
The plans were announced at the Liberal Democrat party conference in Bournemouth this week.
