The whole UK travel industry has faced significant challenges during the Covid-19 pandemic and I attended the Travel Day of Action last Wednesday where I met constituents to discuss the ongoing challenges facing the travel industry, and the risks to businesses and livelihoods. We discussed the risks of reopening and the financial support to travel companies and suppliers. I have written to the Chancellor, the Health Secretary and Transport Secretary with my concerns. I hope that we can open up fully from July 19th and that it includes more countries on the Green List. I know that we are looking at changing the rules on the Amber List too.
I am pleased the Chancellor has extended and expanded business support schemes to help businesses during this difficult time. For example, the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme has been extended until the end of September 2021 to protect jobs over the coming months as we begin our recovery. While I do understand the reasons why travel companies are calling for bespoke help, I hope the £25 billion support which has been made available for all travel industry businesses who have struggled has been of some assistance. I will continue to monitor the situation and lobby Ministers for more help where needed.
