Industry boss demands greater government recognition
Passenger Shipping Association chairman John Crummie has called on the new Labour government to take the cruise and ferry industry more seriously.
He urged greater recognition for an industry which is poised for further growth.
Speaking at last night’s 25th annual PSA dinner on board the Thomson Celebration in Southampton, Mr Crummie said: “The new government should be reminded that the cruise and ferry industry is important.
“The choice and value for money is greater than ever before. The growth potential is huge.”
More than 4O million people are carried on ferries each year and more then one million take a cruise holiday – and a further million are “feeling warm” about cruising, he told the audience of almost 500.
Mr Crummie (DFDS Seaways) added that the PSA would continue to campaign for no-frills airlines to include all extra charges and taxes within their headline fares.
“We will not give up until all low cost airlines comply with the same regulations we have to comply with,” he said.
Mr Crummie also urged PSA members to support the Sea Britain 2OO5 promotional campaign designed to highlight the UK’s maritime history.
He said it presented an opportunity to encourage people to travel by sea but admitted: “We have a big job to do”.
Meanwhile, ABTA said it is to resume its lobbying campaign with the government on a variety of issues which affect members and consumers.
A spokeswoman said: “ABTA is particularly concerned about the current lack of clarity in relation to financial protection in the travel sector. ABTA and the Federation of Tour Operators are currently working towards developing future options for the financial protection of air travellers.”
Report by Phil Davies
Phil Davies
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