The next government has been urged to recognise the importance of the outbound travel industry alongside the domestic and inbound sectors.
The call came from ABTA as it welcomed comments made by opposition leader David Cameron that a dedicated tourism minister would be appointed should the Tories win the election.
But the association was “disappointed” at a lack of concrete proposals for the outbound sector.
ABTA chief executive Mark Tanzer said: “It is encouraging that the Conservatives say they will create a senior ministerial position to protect and fight the interests of the tourism industry, but we have no sign yet that this minister would have the outbound sector in its remit.
“ABTA Members turned over £23 billion last year – the aviation sector alone added £2 billion straight into the treasury’s coffers from APD – while 60 million trips were taken overseas by British people helping to contribute £1 billion to developing economies.”
He added: “All political parties therefore need to understand the importance of having a Whitehall department with a lead responsibility for tourism to include domestic, inbound and outbound sectors.”
by Phil Davies
