Julian Raises Tour de Yorkshire at Prime Minister’s Questions
May 9, 2018
During Prime Minister’s Questions this afternoon Julian took the opportunity to raise the Tour de Yorkshire in a question regarding economic benefits and investment in British regions.
Noting that the successful event over the bank holiday weekend had attracted a record number of spectators, Julian drew attention to the county’s hospitality and beautiful countryside, before inviting the Prime Minister to attend next year’s event.
In her response, the Prime Minister remarked on the high number of spectators turning out for the event and stated this provided an opportunity to “show off the best of Britain”. Mrs May went on to say she was delighted that Cycling Road World Championships would be coming to the region next September along with financial support from the government, before adding she was “always happy to visit Yorkshire”.
This year’s Tour coincided with the official confirmation that Welcome to Yorkshire, the county’s official tourism agency, is in talks to host the start of the Vuelta a España. Alongside the Tour de France and the Giro d’Italia, this race is part of the trio of cycling’s Grand Tours.
Three previous Vuelta a España races have started outside Spain, but none have been in Britain. In 2014 Yorkshire hosted the opening of the Tour de France with the second day consisting of a 125 mile ‘mountain stage’ between York and Harrogate.
Speaking after the question session, Julian said:
“After four successful Tour de Yorkshires now, and the incredible turnout for the Tour de France, it’s clear that our region is passionate about cycling. Yorkshire not only possess suitable and idyllic terrain for these events, but we have a strong brand as well.
We don’t have the figures for this year’s event yet; but last year’s race reached a global audience of 9.7 million across 180 countries. There was a £64 million economic boost and it’s only increasing in popularity.
To attract the Vuelta will be a real coup for Yorkshire and place us in good stead to collect the full set and host the start of all three Grand Tours.”
