Oral Answers to Questions Debate

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Department: Wales Office

Oral Answers to Questions

Mark Williams Excerpts
Wednesday 4th March 2015

(9 years, 9 months ago)

Commons Chamber
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Alun Cairns Portrait Alun Cairns
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A strong tourism sector needs a strong economy. Wales is the fastest-growing part of the United Kingdom, which creates a greater opportunity to attract tourists from not only the UK but beyond. VisitBritain is launching the Countryside is Great campaign, from which I know the right hon. Gentleman’s constituency is set to benefit.

Mark Williams Portrait Mr Mark Williams (Ceredigion) (LD)
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The Minister is right to highlight the successes of the Welsh tourism industry. Will he reflect on the benefits of a cut in VAT for rural economies, particularly those in west Wales—the constituency of the Secretary of State and Ceredigion, Powys and Dwyfor Meirionnydd? They would really benefit because they are incredibly fragile economies.

Alun Cairns Portrait Alun Cairns
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VAT rates are a matter for the Treasury, but the hon. Gentleman will be able to make such points in the forthcoming Treasury debate. We need to ensure that Wales gets its fair share of VisitBritain, and the Countryside is Great campaign provides a great opportunity for his constituency and large parts of Wales to ensure that Wales is promoted internationally as well as within the United Kingdom.