TOURISM: QUESTION FOR SHORT DEBATE

24 April 2013
Lord Lee of Trafford asked Her Majesty's Government what plans they have to maximise tourism potential in the United Kingdom.

Lord Faulkner of Worcester: My Lords, I join others in congratulating the noble Lord, Lord Lee of Trafford, on initiating this debate, and I remind the Committee of my unpaid interests as president of the Heritage Railway Association and as a trustee of the Science Museum Group. Britain's tourist potential depends on many factors, but principally on attractive destinations, such as those in the south-west that we have just heard about, enjoyable experiences in terms of where to stay and what to do, and ease of access. With more time, I would describe the huge contribution that our museums-the five museums in the Science Museum Group now attract 5 million visitors a year-make to tourism, but I shall concentrate on the part that Britain's heritage railways play in attracting visitors to Britain.
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