Tory peer appointed UK's new tourism minister

Kamall, professor of politics and international relations at St Mary’s University in Twickenham, will also take responsibility for civic society, heritage and growth as part of his remit at the Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport.

He was previously technology, innovation and life sciences minister at the Department of Health and Social Care between 17 September 2021 and 20 September 2022. 

Kamall was a Conservative MEP for London from 2005 to 2019 and became a life peer on 11 February 2021.

Previous tourism minister Huddleston faced industry anger after his comments in an interview with TTG editor Sophie Griffiths in December 2020.

When questioned over the lack of support government had given to travel businesses during the pandemic, Huddleston argued: “No support? Of course, you’ve had support... it may not be targeted specifically but let’s be honest and deal with facts – you did get support.”

Following Kamall’s appointment, UKHospitality chief executive Kate Nicholls tweeted: "We welcome Lord @SyedKamall to his new role as Minister for Tourism - our 3rd largest export earner - and look forward to working with him & @DCMS team to implement Tourism Recovery Plan to boost our sector and generate jobs, growth and investment at pace."