Welsh Government says 'absolute commitment' to tourism sector in Wales

Welsh Government says they have an "absolute commitment" to the tourism industry in Wales after comments by the First Minister Mark Drakeford sparked fears over plans to reopen the sector.

Mr Drakeford this weekend said while the self catering sector may be able to reopen in the coming weeks it would be "much harder" to allow hotels to open due to the greater risk of infections spreading because of shared facilities.

Welsh Government has now responded further - releasing this statement.

They said: “The comments reported do not reflect what the First Minister or Government said in regards to tourism.

"In fact, the First Minister reaffirmed our absolute commitment to the industry which is a backbone for the Welsh economy.

"The First Minister has been clear that this Government is committed to doing all we feasibly can to support the sector and to allow for a safe, phased reopening.

“The feedback we’ve had from the tourism industry has been invaluable in helping to support it during the pandemic.

"We are very aware of the concerns and the desire to reopen but only when it is safe to do so.

"We are also very aware of the concerns of communities that nothing should be done which could exacerbate the spread of coronavirus.

“Tourism is a vital part of the Welsh economy at a national, regional and local level.

"It is therefore critical that we continue to work with the industry and local communities to ensure a safe return of tourism, this includes developing detailed guidance and protocols to support the sector and protect the community, staff and visitors.”