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Minister says tourism has key economic role
July 09, 2010

Tourism can play a “key role” in Scotland’s economic recovery, a Holyrood minister said yesterday .

Minister for Enterprise, Energy and Tourism Jim Mather said businesses in the sector could “bring real economic benefits” to both their own local areas and the whole of Scotland.

The minister spoke out as he visited the Scotland’s Heartland project, which includes a number of businesses in the Falkirk and Linlithgow area.

The scheme, which is backed by tourism body Visit-Scotland’s growth fund, gives those on a £250 short break for two £75 worth of vouchers which can be used on attractions in the local area, including trips on the Falkirk Wheel, hotel spas or rounds of golf.

Mr Mather met the people behind the “fantastic” project which he said could “help attract tourists to the area”.

He said: “Tourism has a key role to play in ensuring Scotland continues its recent return to economic growth. By working together and developing innovative ideas like this, tourism businesses can flourish and bring real economic benefits to their local area and the whole of Scotland.

“I am delighted VisitScotland is supporting Scotland’s Heartland and I am sure it will deliver real success over the course of the summer and beyond.”

Mr Mather highlighted how Britons holidaying in the UK had helped Scotland’s tourism industry during the “tough” economic climate. Almost 12.5million visitors from the UK took a trip in Scotland last year.

Source :- http://www.pressandjournal.co.uk