Steve Double, Member of Parliament for St Austell and Newquay, has been elected Chair of the Visitor Economy All Party Parliamentary Group
All-Party Parliamentary Groups (APPGs) are cross-party groups in Parliament where MPs of all political persuasions work together to address a particular issue or represent a specific sector.
The All-Party Parliamentary Group for the Visitor Economy (APPG) aims to support the UK domestic tourist sector by promoting the industry in Parliament and lobbying the government on their behalf.
Commenting on his election, Steve said:
“I am delighted to have been elected Chair of the Visitor Economy All Party Parliamentary Group. The tourist industry is a major economic force nationally and particularly here in Mid-Cornwall.
"I count it an honour to represent a constituency that includes many of the South West’s biggest attractions including the Eden Project and the Lost Gardens of Heligan, as well as our busiest resort, Newquay, that draws hundreds of thousands of tourists from all over the world. I know how important the tourist sector is and how crucial it is that it is well represented in Parliament.”
“Hospitality and tourism is the fourth largest industry in the UK employing 4.6 million people. This APPG provides an opportunity for MPs from all parties to work with the tourism industry to make sure their voice is heard loud and clear."
“The APPG has already launched a successful report into apprenticeships and skills and following our coastal community inquiry we will be making representations to government. The group will also be prioritising the impact of Brexit and the digital and sharing economy in coming months.”
Commenting, Ufi Ibrahim the Chief Executive of the British Hospitality Association which acts as secretariat to the APPG said:
“Steve Double is well aware of the challenges hospitality and tourism businesses face as MP for Newquay and St Austell and is a strong advocate of our industry. We are delighted that he has been appointed chair of the APPG and look forward to working with him to promote the successful and responsible growth of UK hospitality and tourism. The industry is particularly important to Cornwall, accounting for 37,000 jobs and sustaining further jobs in other sectors dependent on hospitality and tourism. Between 2010 and 2014 the industry created 3,523 jobs in Cornwall and 1 in 5 new jobs nationwide, it has the potential to create further career starts and enrich communities across the country.”