Scottish agents anger over APD hike
Scottish agents have hit out at the Chancellor’s continued plans to hike APD.
Scottish Passenger Agents Association (SPAA) president Kevin Thom says that if APD is not reduced or removed from the regions that the Government has failed to listen to the industry and a growing number of MPs.
He claims George Osborne is penalising companies which need to fly to do business.
Increased APD would also prevent overseas companies investing in the UK and also hamper inbound and outbound tourism.
Thom said: “In the Chancellor’s Statement, he claims he wants to support British business – not tax us out of business or our competitive position in the global economy.
“Furthermore, it beggars belief that travellers who have already paid for their tickets are to be asked to bear this additional burden retro-actively, and that over-worked travel and airline staff are to be asked to face clients’ understandable anger when collecting it!”
“If the Chancellor truly wishes to lead the nation out of this financial crisis then he should stop penalising those companies that need to fly to do their business and those overseas companies that want to invest and do business in the UK.”
“Meanwhile, the already severe impact of APD on tourism – outbound and inbound – can only be exacerbated by such a rise. “
Following the Autumn Statement, the treasury confirmed the double inflationary increase in APD will go ahead next year.
The Government’s response to the air passenger duty consultation will be announced on Tuesday, December 6.
By Diane Evans
Diane
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