James Evans is pressing the Welsh Government to do more to support tourism in Powys.

The Brecon and Radnorshire MS asked Economy Secretary, Rebecca Evans, at the Senedd this week what assessment she has made of the challenges facing the tourism sector in the county.

Mr Evans said: “A lot of the tourism businesses in my constituency feel under siege from some of the policies that are coming forward from this Welsh Labour Government - like the 182-day threshold, the tourism tax and national insurance rise in Westminster.

“Anybody with an ounce of common sense would realise that these policies are going to really detriment those tourism businesses - costing jobs and businesses being forced to close.

“With the uncertainty facing our economic climate across Wales and the United Kingdom, do you think it’s about time that these policies were ditched so we can show that we support our tourism businesses across Wales?”

Ms Evans said Visit Wales addresses rural tourism challenges by promoting sustainable, year-round growth and the natural and cultural assets that attract visitors to rural areas.

She told Mr Evans: “We continue to engage with stakeholders in the tourism sector to ensure our approach supports local businesses and communities and enhances visitor experiences across Powys.”

Speaking after the session, Mr Evans said: “It’s time to ditch the damaging policies, back our hospitality sector, and show that Wales is open for business, not pricing visitors out and squeezing local operators to breaking point.”