Social Tourism
Debate between Baroness Massey of Darwen and Baroness Rawlings
Baroness Rawlings
My Lords, the noble Baroness, Lady Rendell, asked a similar Question in February 2010. I know she is a redoubtable campaigner on social tourism and is patron of the Family Holiday Association. The Answer, which was very succinct, said that,
“the Government understand the value of access to leisure and tourism activities”—
and we are aware of the 2 million who never have holidays. It continued:
“By providing support for those who need it most, we are committed to a society where everyone can engage in leisure activities, including holidays, if they wish. A good example is our policy of free admission to many national museums and galleries”.—[Official Report, 8/2/10; col. 478.]
The noble Baroness asked about Europe. The Governments of some European countries, notably France and Belgium, take an interventionist approach to social tourism by directly funding or subsidising people to take holidays. Such countries take the view that holidays are a right.
Baroness Massey of Darwen
My Lords, would the Government consider setting up a working group to consider the social and economic benefits of social tourism?
Baroness Rawlings
I know that the noble Baroness, Lady Massey, was on the all-party group on social tourism. The Government were looking at this, but have not pursued it further. We are keeping an open mind and are aware of the European Calypso programme.