ABTA has launched its ‘Manifesto for Travel and Tourism’ – setting out the industry’s policy priorities for the next government ahead of a future general election.
In it ABTA encourages the next government to work in partnership with industry to build the foundations for a sustainable future, enabling travel and tourism businesses to prosper.
ABTA’s policy priorities are set out under three themes:
- Positioning the UK as a sustainable travel leader.
- Promoting fulfilling and rewarding careers within travel and tourism.
- Creating the conditions for the travel industry to compete successfully.
As part of its work gearing up to the General Election, ABTA has been engaging with MPs and parliamentary candidates across the political spectrum, highlighting the value of the industry to both national and local economies. ABTA data evidences that the outbound travel industry is worth £49bn to the UK economy annually, and supports 843,000 jobs UK-wide.
ABTA is encouraging members and the wider industry to engage with their local MPs and candidates, and is providing template letters and constituency level data on the contribution of travel to communities.
Mark Tanzer, Chief Executive of ABTA – The Travel Association said:
“We have the privilege of working in an amazing industry, which not only gives people fantastic holiday experiences but is a major contributor the UK economy.
“The next five years will be pivotal for our industry, especially as regards sustainability and securing the future workforce for travel and tourism businesses.
“As an industry which is projected to outpace the wider UK in terms of growth, ABTA wants the next government to seize the opportunities presented by outbound travel to further boost the UK economy and travel businesses.”
Luke Petherbridge, Director of Public Affairs said:
“While we don’t yet know the exact date of the next election, it must be announced this year and it’s important we set out our stall on what we want from a future government.
“We’re making progress on some strategically important areas, such as expanding the youth mobility scheme and education reforms, but these will pass to the next government so we need to keep pushing.
“The next Parliament will also make some critical decisions around sustainability – where it is crucial the UK has the right policy and taxation framework to compete with Europe and the US, whilst keeping travel affordable for everyone.”
The manifesto, along with template materials and constituency data can be found at www.abta.com/
