Oral Answers to Questions

David Amess Excerpts

Thursday 9th July 2015 Commons Chamber

[Mr Vaizey]

I can see that an interesting debate is developing among some Conservative Members. Perhaps I should leave them to it.

[Sir David Amess (Southend West) (Con)]

2. What recent estimate he has made of the contribution made by tourism to the economy.

[The Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport (Mr John Whittingdale)]

The tourism sector directly contributed nearly £60 billion to the UK economy in 2014. Taking account of indirect benefits, the sector was expected to be worth more than £133 billion last year, supporting about 3.2 million jobs in the UK.

[Sir David Amess]

Is my right hon. Friend aware that Southend-on-Sea is the alternative city of culture 2017? With the event likely to go global, does he recognise that there will be a boost to the economy in Southend, and a significant boost to the UK tourism sector?

[Mr Whittingdale]

I congratulate my hon. Friend on his campaign to make Southend the city of culture. It was, of course, narrowly beaten by Hull, but nevertheless I am aware that Southend has many attractions. As a fellow Essex MP I am in favour of anything that will attract more visitors to our county.