The Coalition Government has made repeated statements that it intends to rid the Country of unnecessary bureaucracy and controls while at the same time the Prime Minister has underlined the increased importance of the tourism industry to the economy in general and particularly the rural economy.

A clear example of where the Government could make a start is in the process that controls the erection of signs on our major highways. Herefordshire seems to be particularly badly affected by the local officers of the Highway Agency who restrict the use of road signs both by disproportionate restrictions and also by insisting on processes that are excessively costly for the individuals concerned. No-one wants an excessive amount of road signs that are seen in some parts of the world but the incidences that are reported to me of excessive zeal by officials in our County to restrict and intimidate small businesses who are attempting, in a considered and balanced way to promote their businesses, go beyond anything that is balanced or acceptable.

Our representatives at National and Local level should recognise this and take action to introduce proper balance in the current system

Yours faithfully,

Ben N Gill

Sir Ben Gill (Chairman Visit Herefordshire Ltd)