Question reference: S6W-26175
- Asked by: Sharon Dowey, MSP for South Scotland, Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party
- Date lodged: 15 March 2024
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Current status: Answered by Emma Roddick on 5 April 2024
Question
To ask the Scottish Government, in light of reported concerns of the tourism industry regarding the potential impact on travellers to and from Scotland, what discussions it has had with the UK Government regarding the introduction of both the EU Entry/Exit System (EES) and the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS), and whether it plans to work with the UK Government on a joint awareness campaign.
Answer
The tourism and hospitality industry plays a vital role in ensuring visitors enjoy their time in Scotland. Many rural areas of Scotland are particularly reliant on tourism to support the local economy.
Scotland must be able to continue to welcome people from all over the world each year to enjoy our vibrant culture, history, hospitality, and countryside.
Whilst immigration is fully reserved the Scottish Government are willing to work with the UK Government to ensure minimal disruption to travellers when the new EU systems are introduced.