Southampton MP, Alan Whitehead, is backing the campaign, which targets the government and calls for change in how tourism is managed at government level. It is also asking for a task force to be set up that is dedicated to tourism.
The MP pledged his support for the campaign, saying:
“The statistics show that visitor numbers in Southampton are up, and if we are able to sustain those numbers to Southampton then that’s good news for jobs and businesses here."
“That’s why I will be supporting this scheme and pushing the Government to do more to encourage tourism in this country.”
Travelodge claims that up to 300,000 jobs in the tourism industry could be created by 2020, in everything from hotels and tourist attractions to holiday brochure printing companies.
Southampton recently saw its visitor numbers increase by 14 per cent and more focus from the government on the travel, leisure and tourism industries could boost this even further. Since the recession, more and more people have been choosing to take their holidays closer to home, with many staying within the UK rather than flying abroad to exotic destinations. With more support, the UK tourist industry could provide a further significant boost to the country’s economy.
The proposal is being taken to the government by Travelodge and the outcome is expected to be announced in the coming months.