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Written question asked by Baroness Liddell of Coatdyke (Labour) on Wednesday, 6 May 2020, in the House of Lords. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 21 May 2020. It was answered by Baroness Barran (Conservative) on Tuesday, 16 June 2020 on behalf of the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport.

Outward Bound Trust: Finance

Question

To ask Her Majesty's Government what plans they have to provide assistance to the Outward Bound Trust to ensure it is able to continue to provide (1) financial support to students who wish to attend school residential trips, and (2) tourism services in remote parts of the UK.

Answer

We recognise that COVID-19 has significantly impacted the tourism sector, including organisations providing outdoor educational trips. My Department has engaged with stakeholders throughout the crisis to monitor the impact on tourism services across the UK. We will continue to consult the sector to assess how we can most effectively support businesses, organisations and customers during the recovery period.

We have announced unprecedented support for business and workers, including those in the tourism sector, to protect them against the current economic emergency. This includes employee support through the recently extended Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme, plus various loan schemes which offer government backed and guaranteed loans.

The Department for Education is currently advising that professional outdoor education and adventure holiday providers that would usually offer activities for schools and/or summer holiday activities to children should remain closed for the time being. This will be kept under review.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
HL4132
Session
2019-21
Subjects
Finance Tourism Rural areas Students Educational visits Outward Bound Trust
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk