The tourism sector is growing faster than the rest of the economy, but it needs support from government, say tourism chiefs.

GDP generated from tourism is forecast to grow by 4 per cent this year – 1.1 per cent more than the rest of the economy – according to the annual economic impact assessment from the World Travel & Tourism Council.

In 2014, the sector contributed £187.7bn in GDP and 4.2m jobs to the British economy. This year, employment is expected to rise by 2 per cent.

By the end of the year, the sector will contribute £195.2bn, almost 11 per cent of the UK’s GDP, 4.3 million jobs and 13 per cent of total employment.

“This is one of the largest economic sectors, driving economic growth, well being and prosperity,” says WTTC president, David Scowsill. “It creates jobs at different skills levels and in areas where other employment opportunities are scarce.”

As a result, the WTTC is calling for the next UK government to take three steps to allow the sector to thrive.

It wants visa applications to be made easier for high spending Chinese travellers; a reform on Air Passenger Duty tax, which is among the highest in the world and a decision to be taken to address the under-supply of airport capacity in the south east.

WTTC says that for the sector to fulfill its potential, it needs government support and there must be commitment within the industry to nurture talent, so there isn’t a skills shortage in 10 years time.