Protection for the public in regards to package holidays and travel comes from the Package Travel Directive set out by the UK government- protecting consumers with refunds, reimbursements and package issues. However, questions are now being asked by travelling bodies if the regulations are too vague to protect the travel provider?
Luke Petherbridge ABTA Director of Public Affairs said:
“With a new government in place, it’s unsurprising that ministers have chosen to look again at proposed changes to the Package Travel Regulations. But we would urge them not to miss this opportunity to make worthwhile changes to the Regulations.
The Package Travel Regulations is currently in place to protect consumers when booking package holidays and travel arrangements. It fall under the Package Travel and Linked Travel Arrangements Regulations 2018, set out by the UK Government.
Pethabridge continued,
“We very much welcome the government’s overall focus on promoting growth and would encourage ministers to explore ways that regulatory burdens on travel businesses can be reduced. Whilst ABTA has long championed the benefits of consumer protection, which helps underpin the consumer confidence that is vital to the success of the travel industry, there are several areas where the current regulations have either proven unworkable or where existing rules places a disproportionate burden on the travel organiser. ABTA has already put forward several proposals for reform that we believe align with the government’s growth agenda.
“We look forward to consulting with members between now and June to ensure their voices are heard and will be organising a range of opportunities over the coming weeks to gather member views.”
