HRG calls for consultation over aviation duty
Hogg Robinson Group has called for consultation with the Government on how to spend the money raised through aviation duty.
Following yesterday’s Budget announcement to increase the tax revenues by 10% in the second year of operation, HRG group industry affairs director Mike Platt said the measures fall short.
“While we support the Government’s commitment to replace APD with a duty payable per plane and therefore enable the aviation industry to expand in an environmentally sustainable way, we believe that the measures announced yesterday have a long way to go to effectively address this key issue and welcome the opportunity for consultation,†he explained.
He said HRG acknowledges the costs associated with developing a sustainable environment and recognises the role that taxation can play.
But the travel management company believes it is imperative there is accountability and transparency attached to this new government revenue stream.
“If we are to succeed in enhancing the sustainability of this industry and prevent the projected rise in total aviation emissions from 2 per cent to 3 percent, we need to take action now,” said Platt.
“Any funds raised need to be wisely invested into researching alternative fuel sources, developing technology to increase aircraft efficiency and addressing regulation of international airspace and flight paths to reduce air time.â€
Meanwhile, HRG has welcomed plans to introduce automated biometric technology systems including automated technology at the major UK airports.
But warnsed that in the short term these are likely increase waiting times for travellers while teething problems and potential objections are addressed.
By Bev Fearis
Bev
Editor in chief Bev Fearis has been a travel journalist for 25 years. She started her career at Travel Weekly, where she became deputy news editor, before joining Business Traveller as deputy editor and launching the magazine’s website. She has also written travel features, news and expert comment for the Guardian, Observer, Times, Telegraph, Boundless and other consumer titles and was named one of the top 50 UK travel journalists by the Press Gazette.
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