Bombs to hit firms 'more than feared'

The affects of the July bombs attacks on London tourism will be worse than initially predicted, an MP has claimed.

Earlier this year, the Tourism Industry Emergency Response Group forecast the Capital's economy would lose £300m as a result of the explosions on the transport network.

But according to Liberal Democrat MP Sarah Teather, government figures show the turnover of the city's tourism businesses will actually be £500m less than expected.

The figures were revealed in an answer to a parliamentary question posed by Teather, who represents Brent East in north west London.

She called on the government to focus on long term plans to encourage visitors back to the Capital.

"Increased investment in marketing London as a tourist attraction both within this country and abroad is now a priority," Teather said.

"Londoners have all pulled together to get London back on track, they are determined that the terrorists won't win. It is now up to the mayor and ministers to work hard to get back the confidence of tourists so they return to the Capital."

For UK tourism as a whole, the figures showed a £750m shortfall.