‘Tourism industry thwarted by lack of urgency’

Tourism is being “thwarted” by a lack of urgency in easing restrictions for alcohol provisions and planning for the return of international visitors, an industry leader says.

Scottish Tourism Alliance chief executive Marc Crothall aired his concerns after hearing from representatives of all main Holyrood parties on the future of the hard-hit industry.

During the tourism hustings, SNP Tourism Minister Fergus Ewing said the gradual easing of rules has been a “balance” for government.

He admitted international tourism will be a “challenge” but claimed domestic businesses should do “reasonably well”.

As restrictions ease, smaller accommodation providers are starting to open up from April 26.

The hospitality sector should be able to reopen outdoors for serving alcohol from that date, but English businesses have been able to sell drink outside since April 12.

Mr Crothall said: “The Scottish Government needs to address the serious issues thwarting the tourism sector. Issues of alcohol provision, uncertainty around international tourism and the night-time economy are holding us back.”

He added: “Scotland’s tourism sector can and should play a significant part in driving our economic recovery.

“Businesses are eager to welcome visitors and have proved they can operate in a safe way. Whoever is in power after May 6 needs to pull out all the stops to make that happen,” said Mr Crothall.