Local MP Caroline Dinenage today used Prime Minister's Questions to highlight the importance of Gosport's marine and sailing industries to the UK economy – and invited the PM to come and visit the area.
The Clipper Round the World Yacht race set off from London this week. Hosting the start and finish of this gruelling test of endurance is likely to generate around £50m for the economy. Caroline used her question in PMQ's to highlight the race's positive effect on trade, tourism and sport as well as praising the work of Gosport-based Clipper Ventures, the organisers of the race.
Caroline asked:
"With the UK's economy set to benefit by around £50m from hosting the start and finish of the Clipper Round the World Yacht race that started this week.
Will the PM visit Gosport, so that he can see one of Britain's top marine and sailing hubs and congratulate in person Clipper Ventures who literally fly the flag for UK trade, tourism and sport?"
Expressing his agreement, the Prime Minister replied:
"I think my Honourable Friend is absolutely right. I've seen a model of this incredible vessel and I join her in welcoming the fantastic contribution that Clipper Ventures makes to the British economy. It was great to see the race leave London for the first time and even better to see the flotilla was led by a British boat and superbly supported by the GREAT campaign. I'll certainly take into account her kind invitation to come to Gosport but I wish Sir Robin Knox-Johnston well and all those taking part."
A strong supporter of the marine industries, Caroline's question continues her work towards promoting Gosport as a world-class marine and sailing destination. She was instrumental in the formation of the Gosport Marine Scene group and is a member of the All-Party Parliamentary Maritime & Ports Group.
