As indicated in the letter sent today on the committee's inquiry inward and outward investment, the Institute is unable to submit the detailed evidence it would like to this inquiry. I hope that the committee will nevertheless find the following points about tourism, planning and sustainable development useful.

  Tourism cannot be isolated as a discrete element of the economy. It is therefore affected by the market place for all products and services and, as a consequence, by many public sector policies which are not confined to tourism. There needs to be a better integration of policy at a strategic level in Scotland for tourism in relation to economic, social and environmental policies generally. The planning system should be an essential part of this.

  In terms of the facilities it uses, tourism can also not be separated from the general leisure industry, including recreational aspects of such activities as shopping or conservation. It therefore must have regard to the needs of local communities as well as visitors.

  The success of the tourism industry in Scotland depends on the standard of service which it can provide but the distinctive Scottish product is based on its physical assets. These assets should be protected and not sacrificed for short term gain. Properly protected and used they can be the basis of the quality image which is necessary for long term success in the attraction of tourists.

  Tourism in Scotland is also thought of as a footloose activity in view of our large rural areas and the benefits of promoting opportunities for small businesses in remoter areas. However, marketing strategies which promote unlimited car use in rural areas are unsustainable and it is questionable whether this is using Scotland's resources to best effect. There is a better solution in the promotion of centre based tourism with access to public or communal transport or which can maximise the opportunities for walking or cycling. Scotland's cities have shown their potential in recent years: the nation has a large number of attractive historic towns which need consolidation and improvement; there is scope for more rural centres to be established for organised activities.

  A sustainable approach to tourism strategy involves a much clearer set of spatial policies and the Institute would reccomend that national tourism strategy is now the subject of national planning policy guidance. This is particularly the case in view of the proposal to designate National Parks.

  I trust that these comments will be of interest to the committee. The Institute would be happy to give oral evidence in support of them. In the meantime, please do not hesitate to contact me should you wish any further information.