I was pleased to sponsor the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) reception in the House of Commons. The cruise industry is extremely important to my constituency, our local economy, supporting many regional businesses and generating employment opportunities in cruise tourism. Over 500 cruise ships arrive in Southampton each year bringing over £2 million to our local economy on each visit.
The cruise industry is not only important to Southampton but to the UK as a whole and brings great economic benefits to our country. I was pleased that MPs, Ministers and representatives from cruise lines such as Royal Caribbean, P&O Cruises, Cunard and MSC were in attendance.