Thank you for contacting me about support for the travel industry.
I fully appreciate your concerns and the seriousness of the situation for the whole UK travel industry, which I recognise is facing real difficulty in light of the coronavirus outbreak.
I am told by Ministers that the UK Government has been engaging with both the package travel sector and consumer advocacy bodies to assess the impact of cancellations made due to the coronavirus outbreak. I am closely monitoring the situation too and taking on board the views of those living and working here in our constituency, including on introducing Government-backed vouchers.
While I do understand the reasons why travel companies are calling for bespoke help, please do consider applying for the schemes already in place to support businesses.
In addition to help with VAT and rates and the Job Retention Scheme, if applicable, I would also encourage businesses in the travel industry who are facing cashflow or other financial difficulties to explore the Government-backed loans and guarantees that have been made available.
Travel firms which have served the country well fear insolvency solely because of this virus. I have ensured that Ministers are aware of the industry's proposed Refund Credit Notices, the idea being that they would put no consumer money at risk.
Thank you again for taking the time to contact me.
Craig Whittaker MP
May 2020