Tourism minister James Purnell has announced the government’s plans to develop a new Skills Strategy aimed at improving skill gaps and shortages within the tourism workforce in the UK.

Following extensive research carried out by Sector Skills Council People 1st, Purnell has pledged to ensure the £75bn UK tourism industry has the skilled workforce needed to maintain its place at the heart of the country’s economy.

The industry spends £886m a year dealing with high staff turnover and retention problems. By the time London hosts the 2012 Olympic Games, the cost will have risen to £6.2bn.

In order to address the issue, the tourism minister held a meeting on 11 October with the chief executive of People 1st, Brian Wisdom, and representatives from across the hospitality, leisure, travel and tourism industries – including the British Hospitality Association (BHA).

People 1st presented its findings – entitled Skills Needs Analysis – which outlines the steps that need to be taken to enable the industry to attract young workers with the right skills and education. The Sector Skills Council is now building upon this, in order to publish the Skills Strategy by December.

Purnell said: “This will lay the foundations for a Sector Skills Agreement; a clear guide to help industry and partners boost skills and productivity.” Details: www.people1st.co.uk