THE Assembly Government was today accused of neglecting the Welsh tourism industry after figures revealed Wales' share of domestic and international markets has fallen since 1999.

Information obtained by Shadow Heritage Minister Paul Davies AM shows that Wales is losing out to other parts of the UK in terms of attracting visitors and holidaymakers.

The Preseli Pembrokeshire AM said part of the reason was due to the Assembly Government's 'misguided' decision to scrap the Wales Tourist Board in 2006.

The figures show that as well as an overall fall since 1999, in the year immediately after the WTB's abolition Wales' share of visitor numbers fell as a percentage of the UK tourism market.

Commenting on the figures Mr Davies said:

"These figures are a clear example of the Assembly Government's neglect of the Welsh tourism industry over the last decade.

"Instead of supporting the sector ministers' misguided decision to scrap the Wales Tourist Board and assume responsibility themselves has damaged the industry.

"It has had a damaging effect on our ability to market Wales as a leading tourism destination at home and abroad.

"Proper investment and proper support are critical to ensuring the vibrancy of the Welsh tourism sector, and to protect the businesses and jobs which depend upon it.

"The weakness of the Pound and the looming recession are forcing more people to consider holidaying at home. It is vital Wales seizes every opportunity at this time.

"With the UK's share of the world tourism market having also fallen in recent years the fall in the Welsh share is even more worrying."