Question reference: S4W-02911
- Asked by: John Finnie, MSP for Highlands and Islands, Scottish National Party
- Date lodged: 23 September 2011
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Current status: Answered by Shona Robison on 7 October 2011
Question
To ask the Scottish Executive what the impact would be on adventure tourism in Scotland of the proposed closure of the Adventure Activities Licensing Authority; what its position is on the proposals to close the authority, and whether it has received any representations on this issue.
Answer
You are aware that the UK Government plan to repeal the Activity Centres (Young Persons’ Safety) Act 1995 and abolish the Adventure Activities Licensing regime replacing it with a proposed code of practice. You will also be aware that the current licensing regime covers only four defined adventure activities (trekking, water sports, caving and climbing) for young persons who are aged less than 18 years old.
I have been in correspondence with the UK Government on this important issue and have also met with key Scottish representative groups to ensure I am fully informed of their views. The UK Government, via the Health and Safety Executive, have consulted on their proposal – this closed on 21 September and the responses are now being evaluated from a Scottish perspective so I can determine the best option for Scottish providers and users.
In determining the best option for Scotland I am considering all available options, however, I believe it is premature to give a final position for Scotland at this stage – as the code of practice has not yet been developed and the responses to the consultation are still being evaluated.
As this is the Year of Active this Scottish Government is more committed than ever in encouraging more people, young and old, to take part in activities and outdoor pursuits so we would not support any policy which would counter those ambitions or have an adverse effect on the adventure tourism industry.