S African Democratic Alliance calls for reasonable prices for WC

South Africa's hospitality industry should provide reasonably priced accommodation for visitors during the 2010 Soccer World Cup, the South African Press Association cited the country's major opposition Democratic Alliance (DA) as saying on Friday.

"Recent reports indicate that some role players have inflated accommodation rates by up to six times in anticipation of the event," minister of tourism Greg Krumbock said in a statement.

"The DA welcomes the fact that the Cup will create opportunities for thousands of South Africans to earn some much needed additional income, but industry professionals and private homeowners should bear in mind that 'value for money' perceptions," said he.

Krumbock said flights were already costly and if accommodation rose excessively too, it would lessen the appeal of South Africa as a holiday destination and hamper future income streams.

"South Africa has developed a well-deserved international reputation for successfully hosting world-class sporting events, and the success of the FIFA World Cup will enhance this perception.

"Tourists must see the benefits of holiday in South Africa again compared to anywhere else," added he.

Source: Xinhua