ABTA’s plea to Boris for ‘extraordinary support measures’ for members
ABTA is calling on the Government to consider extraordinary support measures for travel and tourism businesses during the COVID-19 outbreak.
In a letter to the Prime Minister ahead of tomorrow’s budget, ABTA has asked Boris Johnson to consider steps ‘to protect healthy businesses that may suffer financial distress’.
Its suggested measures include bridging loans, a relief to business rates, VAT and PAYE deadline extensions and reliefs, and a six-month ‘holiday’ from Air Passenger Duty.
Chief executive Mark Tanzer said: "As the outbreak of coronavirus develops, travel businesses are under increasing pressure. They cannot wait to see what may happen in the months to come, we are asking the Government to act now in taking steps to protect them.
"Among the travelling public, our priority remains to be proactive in providing up to date fact-based information and to give perspective so they can make informed decisions. We are also explaining the protections that are in place if they’re no longer able to travel."
Meanwhile, ABTA is hosting a conference call with its members today to provide an update on the COVID19 situation and address questions.
A recording of the call will be made available tomorrow for all members at www.abta.com/coronavirusguidance.
Linsey McNeill
Editor Linsey McNeill has been writing about travel for more than three decades. Bylines include The Times, Telegraph, Observer, Guardian and Which? plus the South China Morning Post. She also shares insider tips on thetraveljournalist.co.uk
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