The Isle of Wight’s tourism and hospitality sector got a shout out at the Conservative Party Conference this week, with East Wight MP, Joe Robertson, highlighting key challenges and pledging support for the industry.

Speaking on the main stage with other members of the Shadow Culture, Media and Sport team, Mr Robertson responded to a question about boosting the UK’s tourism, leisure and hospitality sectors. He welcomed a new policy announcement promising permanent 100 per cent business rate relief for hospitality and leisure businesses under a future Conservative government. “Tourism in this country is one of the most overtaxed sectors across Europe,” Mr Robertson said. “This is a very significant step forward.”

He also criticised the Labour Government’s recent National Insurance changes, which he claims penalise part-time employment and discourage businesses from hiring young people. “For a lot of young people, especially on the Isle of Wight, their first job is in tourism and hospitality,” he said. “The Government has disincentivised employing young people. Bad for young people, bad for the local economy and bad for tourism.”

Mr Robertson also raised concerns about the cross-Solent ferry operators, accusing them of undermining local tourism through poor service and pricing.

Elsewhere at the conference, Hampshire & Solent Mayoral Tory candidate, Donna Jones, pledged to campaign for regulatory powers over ferry services if elected. “I will demand government hand over regulatory powers and ensure accountability over prices and performance,” she said.