Potential cuts to the region's tourism board, Welcome to Yorkshire, have been attacked by the York's Labour Group leader.

The new coalition Government's Tourism Minister, John Penrose, visited the region yesterday in advance of a review of public spending for tourism. Reports suggest that Welcome to Yorkshire could be axed, or significantly slimmed down, as the Government's next instalment of cuts is announced.

But Coun. James Alexander defended the tourism board, saying:

"Welcome to Yorkshire does a fantastic job for our region in promoting the wonderful towns, cities, coast and countryside we have to offer. It is fair to say that what we have gives Yorkshire a distinct advantage over many other counties and regions, but the promotion and marketing of Yorkshire is essential for the long-term health of its economy.

"The Tories have spoken about how other regions need to have more balanced economies that flourish in the way the south-east does, but this would be exactly how not to go about it. Given what I have heard, I have a sense of foreboding about this ‘review' of tourism funding.

"Welcome to Yorkshire is one of only eight European nominations for best marketing campaign at the World Travel Awards 2010 which demonstrates the high esteem in which it is held. Yorkshire needs an organisation that continues to promote the finest the region has to offer, so that existing jobs are protected and new jobs created. The raft of cuts coming out of Government can only result in jobs being lost, and that needs to be highlighted if and when decisions of this kind are taken".