This is where the party manifestos – which Abta has been studying closely – come in. Proposals such as the so-called “dementia tax” or additional taxes for high earners have caught the headlines. But what do the policies outlined in the parties’ manifestos mean for travel and tourism? Here are some of the key statements made.
One of the biggest issues facing the industry is the sharp rise in holiday sickness claims, up more than 500% in the last three years. The Conservatives have committed to considering a ban on companies cold calling people encouraging them to make false personal injury claims. Such a ban already exists for solicitors, and this would extend it to claims management companies. This is something Abta has been calling for and we are pleased to see it in the manifesto.
The Lib Dems and Labour both mention tourism in their manifestos and recognise the importance of the sector to the UK economy.
Labour has committed to protecting the industry and reinstating the cross-Whitehall ministerial group on tourism, to ensure government ministers understand how they fit into the national tourism agenda, while the Lib Dems want to protect the European Health Insurance Card and make sure roaming charges are not reintroduced.
The Lib Dems and the Conservatives both explicitly state they would maintain the Common Travel Area between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.
These are all important consumer protections that are at risk as we move towards Brexit.
On Brexit, many of the parties’ positions remain much the same as they have been in recent months. Labour and the Conservatives would give Parliament a vote on a deal, while the Lib Dems would give the public another referendum on the final Brexit deal, and the Conservatives have stated that the UK would leave both the single market and the customs union.
When it comes to the issue of airport expansion, many of the parties’ positions also remain unchanged.
Labour and the Conservatives would complete Heathrow’s expansion, but the Lib Dems remain opposed to any expansion in the south-east; they would rather focus on improving regional airports like Manchester and Birmingham.
All parties have committed to developing an industrial strategy, and Abta will push to ensure that tourism sees a particular focus.
Finally, the Conservatives, Lib Dems and Labour have all pledged to review the Business Rates Valuation system; the Conservatives and Lib Dems would reduce corporation tax to 17%, while Labour would raise the tax to 26%.
The parties all bring varying offerings to the table. At Abta, our focus will be on working closely with whichever party comes to power, to ensure the best outcomes for the travel industry this year and beyond.
Alan Wardle is director of public affairs for Abta
