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Olympics 'could offer UK £2.1bn boost'
18 Sep 2007
The British tourism industry could see a £2.1 billion windfall from the Olympic Games being held in London in 2012, according to a government report.
A joint study by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport, VisitBritain and VisitLondon provides a guide to the industry on how to prepare for the games and take full advantage of the tourist influx.
Tourism minister Margaret Hodge said that, despite 32.2m visitors in 2006, there are still significant deficiencies in the £85 billion UK travel industry.
Government figures state that only 53% of accommodation in the UK is signed up to the national star-grading scheme and just 34% of London accommodation bears any kind of quality mark.
Ms Hodge said: 'From the London Eye to the Lake District we have some of the finest tourist attractions in the world. We've got a good image as a tourist destination - but I want that image to be excellent.
'London 2012 is a huge opportunity for the UK tourism industry. In five years' time millions of visitors will be coming here for the first time and we want them to come back time and time again - and bring their family and friends. It's about creating a lasting legacy.'
Among the government's recommendations for the tourism industry is the development of a skilled workforce, improvements in quality of accommodation and promotion of the UK as a location for business visits.
Opodo is a leading online travel company offering flights, hotels, rental cars and holidays worldwide. Search for travel deals.
© Adfero Ltd
A joint study by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport, VisitBritain and VisitLondon provides a guide to the industry on how to prepare for the games and take full advantage of the tourist influx.
Tourism minister Margaret Hodge said that, despite 32.2m visitors in 2006, there are still significant deficiencies in the £85 billion UK travel industry.
Government figures state that only 53% of accommodation in the UK is signed up to the national star-grading scheme and just 34% of London accommodation bears any kind of quality mark.
Ms Hodge said: 'From the London Eye to the Lake District we have some of the finest tourist attractions in the world. We've got a good image as a tourist destination - but I want that image to be excellent.
'London 2012 is a huge opportunity for the UK tourism industry. In five years' time millions of visitors will be coming here for the first time and we want them to come back time and time again - and bring their family and friends. It's about creating a lasting legacy.'
Among the government's recommendations for the tourism industry is the development of a skilled workforce, improvements in quality of accommodation and promotion of the UK as a location for business visits.
Opodo is a leading online travel company offering flights, hotels, rental cars and holidays worldwide. Search for travel deals.
© Adfero Ltd
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