Tourism

Stephen Mosley (City of Chester) (Con)
11.  What recent discussions she has had with (a) ministerial colleagues and (b) others on the promotion of tourism in Wales.

The Secretary of State for Wales (Mrs Cheryl Gillan)
As this is Welsh tourism week, I have been out on visits. I also have regular discussions with ministerial colleagues and others on the promotion of tourism in Wales. Tourism is primarily a devolved matter for the Welsh Government but, as usual, we are keen to work with them to promote Wales internationally. [Interruption.]

Mr Speaker
Order. The Secretary of State’s answers can scarcely be heard, and that is simply not fair. Let us have a bit of order for Mr Mosley.

Stephen Mosley
Thank you, Mr Speaker.

There are huge opportunities for boosting tourism in north Wales by working with the beautiful, historic border town of Chester. Has my right hon. Friend had any discussions with the Welsh Assembly Government to encourage the joint marketing of our tourism gems on both sides of the Anglo-Welsh border?

Mrs Gillan
I will certainly ensure that my hon. Friend’s request is on the agenda at my next meeting with the First Minister. I also hope that many people visiting this country, particularly for the Olympic games, will take the opportunity to visit the many attractions on both sides of the border, but especially in Wales.

Chris Ruane (Vale of Clwyd) (Lab)
What more could be done to capture the Irish tourist market in Wales, especially north Wales?

Mrs Gillan
As the hon. Gentleman knows, that is the responsibility of the Labour Welsh Government, but I will certainly ensure that that matter is brought to the attention of Irish Ministers in my conversations with them.