This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
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United front for tourism
21/11/2005
A draft framework mapping the future direction of the tourism industry in Scotland was unveiled at the Scotland United conference in Fife today.
Tourism Minster Patricia Ferguson told delegates Scotland had the 'ambition, desire and drive' to become the most sustainable visitor destination in the world.
Ms Ferguson said:
"I want us all to work together as one team for Scottish tourism, embracing the need for change to make the industry one of the leading sectors of our economy, now and for decades to come.
"This has been a good year for Scottish tourism. Domestically, hotel occupancy rates across the country have been at record levels.
"Overseas visitors continue to come here in ever increasing numbers, with strong growth in the North American and European markets. But we cannot be complacent because global competition is fierce.
"This draft framework is not just another government strategy, but proposals framed by Scotland's tourism businesses, which are ambitious, challenging and innovative.
"The industry aims to grow tourism by 50 per cent over the next ten years, an ambition shared by this government, which could help achieve the long held goal of full employment in Scotland.
"That's why the Executive has increased Visitscotland's marketing budget, and EventScotland is working hard to attract bring major events to these shores."
Scotland United is an industry-led conference made possible through a partnership between the British Hospitality Association, the Scottish Tourism Forum, VisitScotland, Scottish Enterprise and Highlands and Islands Enterprise.