EU Plans to Boost Tourism in South West

12.00.00am BST (GMT +0100) Thu 15th Apr 2010

Government ministers from around Europe will meet today to set out EU plans to encourage year-round tourism in places like the South West.

The Lisbon Treaty enables the EU to "complement the action of the member states in the tourism sector".

Officials hope to use the new powers to introduce schemes such as an "Erasmus for tourists". This would involve providing financial support to the young, old and persons of reduced mobility from all around Europe, so that they can holiday in low season.

European Commissioner Antonio Tajani said;

"Seasonality represents a significant issue for the competitiveness of tourism. In this context, I plan to promote concrete initiatives in order to prolong the high season,"

Other plans being considered include a scheme to highlight destinations and resorts that offer high quality, sustainable breaks.

Local Lib Dem MEP Graham Watson commented;

"I am proud to represent one of the most beautiful constituencies in Europe. This is a great opportunity to market the area as a year-round holiday destination.

"Tourism provides vital jobs and income to many communities here in the South West.

"Lib Dems are committed to using our influence in Europe to shape these proposals and show 500m Europeans exactly what the South West has to offer."