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Tourism: Finance

Asked by Blake StephensonConservativeDepartment for Culture, Media and SportTabled Answered 31 January 2025UIN 26152

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, if she will make an estimate of the contribution of inbound tourism to the public purse.

Answered by Chris Bryant

Inbound tourism makes a significant contribution to the public purse. According to the latest available data from VisitBritain and the International Passenger Survey (IPS), inbound visitors spent a record £31.1bn during 2023; supporting jobs and businesses across the UK, and contributing to tax revenues through VAT, Air Passenger Duty, and other sources.

DCMS continues to work closely with HM Treasury and the tourism sector to maximise the economic benefits of inbound tourism, including through VisitBritain’s international marketing campaigns and initiatives to enhance the visitor experience. These efforts play a vital role in driving economic growth, supporting public finances, and ensuring the UK remains a top global destination.

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