Agenda item

Verbal update to be heard.

Members received oral updates of the Cultural and Visitor Development Director and the Head of Barbican and Community Libraries regarding Brexit.

Based on research and assumptions promoted by London and Partners, the Association of Leading Visitor Attractions (ALVA), Visit Britain and others, the Cultural and Visitor Development Director reported on the impact of Brexit on tourism, noting that there are concerns from EU visitors regarding access to the UK, and from UK visitors travelling to EU destinations, with questions over identification cards, the strength of the British Pound and political instability. There are concerns from the tourism industry regarding the supply chain, staff retention and abuse of EU nationals working at attractions. The Director reported that visits from EU countries had dropped by 8.3% in 2018, and there was a 7.6% drop in EU arrivals in the first two months of 2019. However, there has been an 18% increase in tourism from the US and a 19% increase from China.

Members suggested that the decline in tourism from EU visitors could also be related to terrorism threats and high cost of travel in the UK. The Director advised that further research would determine the extent of reasons for decline in tourism. Members emphasised the importance of engaging with visitors to promote the City and the UK.

The Head of Barbican and Community Libraries reported that libraries in the City have facilities to capture biometric data to assist individuals applying for UK visas, residency and citizenship. Applicants are often individuals who have been hired by a City company that have not been able to recruit from the UK and the service has also been accessed by a number of City residents.

RESOLVED – That the oral updates be received and their contents noted.