LONDON – On the eve of what would have been Princess Diana’s 40th birthday, her brother, Earl Spencer did appeal to tourists who have avoided Britain because of concerns about foot-and-mouth not to rule out the country as a holiday destination.
New research conducted by the British Tourist Authority shows that many people who might have gone to Britain on holiday are holding back until next year, or even later, as a result of their fears about Foot and Mouth Disease.
After saturation coverage by the worldwide media 97% of people questioned said that they were aware of the FMD outbreak in the UK, but a huge number were misinformed about the true situation. The BTA, has been amazed at the myths that have spread around the world about the effect of the recent outbreak, and want to put the message straight.
Top concerns discovered by research:
- Restrictions on movement – 21% in total (36% in the Netherlands)
- The countryside is closed – 14% (20% in Switzerland and Germany)
- The food is unsafe – 16% (USA 21%, Sweden 20%)
- I might bring FMD back to my country – 10% (18% in Ireland)
The British Tourist Authority is sending out messages that:
- There are no restrictions on travelling to or within Britain, although access to some farmland may be limited
- 98% of Britain’s attractions and events are open and operating as usual
- Our food is both safe and plentiful and there is no danger from drinking water
- There are precautions in place to prevent the spread of foot and mouth to other countries
- Visitors to Britain will enjoy their stay as much as in any previous year and will find they can still explore as much of the country as they might wish.
For more information, consult your local BTA office or our website www.visitbritain.com
