London to bounce-back from attacks

London is predicted to bounce-back from any short-term fall in tourism following yesterday's terrorist attacks.

Visit London is refusing to speculate on the impact that the attacks, which killed at list 37 people and injured 700 others, would have on London's tourist economy.

But the World Tourism Organisation (WTO) pointed to the example of Madrid, which suffered similar attacks on 11 March 2004, yet finished the year with growth of over 11 per cent in international tourist arrivals.

"We are hopeful that British and London tourism won't be impacted," said WTO secretary general Francesco Frangialli.

The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) said the attacks might have a short-term impact on the tourism industry, but added that past events had shown that peoples' desire to travel, experience new cultures and new places quickly bounces back.

WTTC president Jean-Claude Baumgarten said: "Now, more than ever, people should keep their travel plans and take the opportunity to visit family, friends and new places all over the world in order to meet others, thus creating an international community of understanding and peace. Not doing this would be to play into the hands of the terrorists."

Visit London said in a statement that British Airways and BAA, which owns London's Heathrow, Gatwick and Stansted airports, have told them that it's business as usual; but added that travellers might wish to contact their own travel agents or airlines before travel.

It said: "Our main concern is for the people who have been affected by this incident and we will monitor the situation constantly. Visit London will not speculate at this time what impact, if any, there could be on the visitor economy."

Meanwhile, overseas governments are urging visitors to the UK to take care.

The Australian department of foreign affairs advises Australians in the UK "to be alert to their own security."

"As you would in Australia, use common sense and be alert to suspicious activities."

The Canadian department of foreign affairs says Canadians planning to travel to London should contact their travel agent, tour operators or airline to determine whether the situation would affect their travel arrangements.

It adds: "Travellers can expect increased police presence and security at major airports and throughout transportation networks in western Europe and elsewhere. Canadians should exercise caution and maintain a high level of personal security awareness at all times and in all places.

The US embassy in London is reopening today after temporarily suspending public access yesterday, while the US department of homeland security has stepped up the level of alert on transport systems in US cities.

The UK foreign office has set up a phone number for nationals wishing to make enquiries about relatives who might have been involved. They should contact: 0870 1566 344