Please rest assured that I wholly appreciate the impact that Covid-19 has had on the travel industry in this country.
I welcome the decision by the Foreign Office to publish a list of destinations that no longer pose an exceptional risk to British travellers. The Government also feels the risk of importing additional Coronavirus cases from these destinations is sufficiently low.
I have been reassured by colleagues that the Government have been engaging with the package travel sector and consumer advocacy bodies to establish the impact of cancellations made due to the Covid-19 pandemic. I will continue to monitor the situation closely and take on board a variety of views, including on introducing Government-backed vouchers.
I welcome the wide-ranging support packages the Government has made available to help businesses through the pandemic. Along with help on VAT, rates and the Job Retention Scheme, I would urge any business in the travel industry who is experiencing financial or cashflow difficulties to look into the Government-backed loans and guarantees on offer. I have ensured that Ministers are aware of the industry’s proposed Refund Credit Notices, the intention being that they would not put consumer money at risk.
EXPIRES ON 18.11.21
