The Countryside Alliance's political team has prepared the enclosed briefing ahead of a Westminster Hall Debate on "Potential effect of the UK leaving the EU on UK tourism" (Nigel Huddleston, Conservative, Mid Worcestershire) on Wednesday 12 October, 16:30-17:30.
Tourism in rural areas has huge potential not only to underpin local economies but also the national economy, while supporting local farmers, producers and making the most of our country's natural assets. The areas for growth include food and drink tourism, which can generate a year round tourism offer, and the opportunities shooting and fishing offer, which not only bolster local economies but enable people to engage with the natural environment.
Shooting and fishing visitors from Europe contribute significantly to the rural economy. We believe the UK should retain free movement for sporting tourists and would be disappointed if additional and un-necessary restrictions were placed on them. We therefore fully support the retention of the current system of the European Firearms Pass (EFP).
We need a well-integrated tourism strategy, which promotes and protects rural tourism following the vote to leave the EU.
Download our briefing here: briefing-note-on-tourism-and-brexit-westminster-hall-debate-nigel-huddlestone-mp-12-10-2016