Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Greg Clark and Peter Heaton-Jones

Tuesday 16th July 2019 Commons Chamber

[Peter Heaton-Jones (North Devon) (Con)]

1. What plans he has to establish a tourism sector deal under the Industrial Strategy.

[The Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (Greg Clark)]

This summer we should recognise the vital role that visitors play in the UK economy—particularly, I might say, overseas sporting visitors. Overseas visitors spent nearly £150 million in Devon last year, supporting jobs and growth throughout the county. Our new sector deal with the tourism industry was published last month, and includes commitments to an additional 10,000 apprenticeships annually and an extra 130,000 hotel rooms.

[Peter Heaton-Jones]

As the Secretary of State will know, the best place to visit as a tourist is, of course, North Devon. I welcome the publication of the tourism sector deal, but will he look favourably on the granting of tourism zone status to my constituency? Will he also join me in thanking all those who work so hard at this time of year in the tourism and hospitality industries, especially the North Devon Marketing Bureau, which does such good work in ensuring that people know that North Devon is the place to come to?

[Mr Speaker]

Including the Woolacombe Bay Hotel.

--- Later in debate ---

[Greg Clark]

I value very highly everyone who works in my Department, whether they are directly employed or employed through contractors. Of course, we will always require our contractors to obey the law. What we have done, and what I have acted to do, is make sure that our contractor staff are paid at least the average level across London for their employment. I know that that has been welcomed. I take the issue very seriously and I am grateful to the hon. Lady for raising it.

[Peter Heaton-Jones (North Devon) (Con)]

T5. Do Ministers agree that improving the whole A303, A30 and A358 corridor would remove a significant barrier to growth across the south-west and North Devon?

Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Greg Clark and Peter Heaton-Jones

Tuesday 12th February 2019 Commons Chamber

[Greg Clark]

Of course we need to consult—and we are consulting—with businesses and sector organisations to ensure that the right decision is made, but no decision has yet been taken.

[Peter Heaton-Jones (North Devon) (Con)]

T9. In North Devon, we are passionate about doing our bit to tackle climate change. Will the Minister update me on where we are with reducing carbon emissions?