BHA issues pre-election wish list
The British Hospitality Association (BHA) has called for the burden of red tape to be lifted from the UK hospitality industry before it loses its place in world tourism.
The BHA made the plea in an 11-point election manifesto sent to all Parliamentary candidates.
It said incoming tourism in the UK had been static for too long and it urged the Government to "pay more attention" before new laws are passed, and consider the resulting effects on the hospitality industry's position on the world stage.
Other key points contained in the manifesto included:
The abolition of regulations covering GM labelling on menus.
The immediate implementation of the licensing reforms outlined in the Time for Change White Paper in April last year.
A "fresh look" at the effect of property taxes, particularly Uniform Business Rates, and the effect of VAT on accommodation and restaurant meals.
An amendment to the National Minimum Wage to allow for regional variations.
No more "home-grown" employment laws, in particular the proposed automatic right to work part-time following maternity leave.
An increase in funding for vocational education in hospitality, and a simplification of the qualifications structure.
The presence of food and practical cooking skills on the National Curriculum.
More long-term aid for the British Tourist Authority.
A resolution to the confusion over classification and grading schemes.
BHA chief executive Bob Cotton said: "The manifesto emphasises how important the tourism industry is to the UK economy.
"The foot-and-mouth crisis has emphasised this, but we must not let the Government forget its commitment to the industry after the election."
The manifesto is available on the BHA's Web site: www.bha-online.org.uk.
