Tour firms 'could pay health tax'

The council report says the NHS should plan for holidaymakers

Tour firms could be asked to contribute towards the cost of treating holidaymakers who become ill while visiting Cornwall.

The idea is being considered by the county council, which is studying the impact tourists have on services.

Cornwall is already facing a deficit in its health budget of £34m, which must be cleared within the next two years.

The council is calling for the government to recognise the demands put on the county's health services.

In a report, it says the NHS should plan effectively for the annual influx of visitors.

There is also the suggestion that tourism operators contribute towards the increasing demand for more health services in Cornwall.

Councillors are also looking at spreading the school holidays to try to ease staff resources within the NHS.