APD Rise Provokes Travel Industry Anger
The UK government’s decision to go ahead with plans to increase APD taxes at double-inflationary rates has angered the UK travel industry, many of whose members had been campaigning for a tax freeze for air passengers, and even ultimately the abolishment of the tax.
Amanda Wills, managing director at Virgin Holidays, voiced her displeasure at the Government’s actions. She went on to highlight the need for the travel industry to continue to push for reform.
“It’s very disappointing that despite the efforts made to date, the clear evidence of the damage it causes to the economy and job prospects here and the opposition of consumers and trade alike, the Treasury has decided to press on with a tax rise that penalises already hard-pressed consumers for taking a holiday, and which costs the UK by deterring inbound visitors,” said Ms Wills. “It will also have a significant and ongoing impact on overseas communities whose economies and prosperity depend on international tourism.”
Mary Rance, chief executive of UKinbound, said that George Osborne’s decision to go ahead with APD rises left the organisation “bitterly disappointed”, and added, “We cannot comprehend his failure to acknowledge the damage this will cause to the already decreasing numbers of inbound tourists to the UK.”
Eddie Redfern, head of regulatory affairs for aviation at TUI Travel, emphasised the need for UK families to be able to “enjoy some quality time together” abroad, and criticised the Government for making this harder. “We are very disappointed by the announcement today but look forward to the 6th December when the APD structure will be unveiled,” added Mr Redfern.
Travel Industry news posted by Jan Moys on 30 November 2011
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