The Pink Booklet, an indispensable advisory guide to help England's tourism accommodation providers navigate the minefield of legislation that affects their business is launched today by VisitBritain.

The Booklet offers a wealth of invaluable advice on a myriad of issues ranging from health and safety at work, e-mail marketing and paternity leave to information on complying with new regulations covering asbestos, licensing, the Disability Discrimination Act, working time and flexible working.

Kurt Janson, Head of Strategic Planning at VisitBritain, said:

"Small accommodation businesses such as B&Bs and self-catering flats are a key component of England's appeal for international and British visitors alike and the mainstay of our tourism industry. However, many owners can feel daunted by the legal requirements involved, making the Pink Booklet an indispensable guide to setting up and running an accommodation business.

"Past editions of the Pink Booklet have proved incredibly popular and a vital resource for the industry in raising the quality of accommodation throughout England and meeting visitors' expectations."

Written in layman's terms, the handbook includes sections on premises, utility supplies, health and safety, food and drink, facilities and licences, and proprietor's rights and responsibilities, as well as sources of further information. The handbook has been extensively revised and updated and the last issue, published in 2000, proved to be VisitBritain's most popular publication and sold out quickly.

Copies of the Pink Booklet are available now priced £7.99 each (for 1-10 copies) or £4.99 (for orders of more than 10 copies) plus postage and packing. Telephone: 0870 606 7204