Tourism legislation dating back 42 years is set to be updated in a shake-up.

The government is now asking the public what should be changed.

The Department for Enterprise, under whose remit tourism - or the ’visitor economy’ as the government now calls it - falls, says that the objective is to ’nsure up-to-date legislation which encourages and supports the tourist industry as part of the modern economy of the island’.

The consultation includes questions regarding the statutory registration of visitor accommodation, the grading of visitor accommodation and the department’s powers for data collection and promotion.

Rob Callister MHK, the politician at the department responsible for tourism, said: ’Our visitor economy contributes to the livelihoods and quality of life of the island’s residents as well as attracting thousands of visitors each year.

’It’s important that we balance the promotion of the island’s distinct image and quality offering with changing visitor expectations and the development of new products and experiences.

’This consultation will be a real opportunity for stakeholders to have a say in the statutory obligations of the tourism industry, ensuring that our legislation is up-to-date and in line with the needs of a modern visitor economy.

’The Department for Enterprise’s mission is to create an environment through innovation and collaboration, where the economy thrives.

’The visitor economy will play a large role in this and we will be working even closer with the private sector to ensure our tourism policies are aligned with the changing trends and forecasts for the sector going forward.’

The consultation primarily centres on reviewing the Tourist Act 1975, which underpins most of the department’s powers and functions in connection with the visitor economy in the Isle of Man, including financial assistance, promotion, and accommodation registration.

Back in the mid-70s, the island still enjoyed mass tourism, although cheaper flights abroad were beginning to lure visitors elsewhere.

The proposals outlined in the consultation would require primary legislation, which could be introduced to the Legislative Branches of Tynwald for 2018/19.

The closing date for the receipt of responses is January 26. A summary of the responses will be published after the consultation has closed.

View the full consultation online at: https://consult.gov.im/economic-development/review-of-tourism-legislation/