If Jo Swinson’s party comes into power on December 12, it has promised to create a Department for Digital, Culture, Media, Sport and Tourism with a designated Minister of State for Tourism.

It says this will aim to encourage more visitors to the lesser-visited destinations within the UK and will promote growth in rural, urban and seaside communities. 

Lib Dem spokesperson for community and local government and former party leader Tim Farron said tourism would be “championed” across the country.

“Tourism is the lifeblood of the UK economy. We are so lucky to have our beautiful capital cities like Edinburgh, traditional ‘bucket and spade’ resorts like Eastbourne, stunning national parks like the Lake District and modern city attractions like Manchester – we have to support them,” Farron said.

“The Liberal Democrats would work to grow and develop an industry that has been left behind through turbulent political and economic times. We will ensure that the tourism industry thrives under a brighter future.”