Press release: Glasgow MP seeks travel industry support

Glasgow East MP David Linden has called upon the Government to immediately bring forward additional measures to support the travel industry, including the aviation sector, coach companies and travel booking agencies.

Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, outbound and inbound travel was estimated to generate approximately £65bn to the UK economy.

The travel industry has been brought to halt by global lockdowns and travel bans, leading to massive job loss across the sector. An estimated 12,000 jobs have already been lost and a further 75,000 jobs could be at risk.

The Association of British Travel Agents (ABTA) has offered stark warnings of further job loss, especially as the Government’s furlough scheme is phased out. ABTA have continually advocated for "tailored support" for the travel industry.

Challenging the Government in the House of Commons today, Glasgow East MP David Linden said that it was "crucial" the Government provide financial support to the suffering travel industry.

Speaking from the House of Commons, David Linden MP said:

"The effects of the COVID-19 pandemic have been far reaching, impacting countless jobs and sectors across the UK and the world.

"The travel sector has been disproportionally affected by the public health crisis and Government support is desperately needed to keep the industry afloat.

"I’m standing with my SNP colleagues in supporting the #SaveTravel Campaign organised by Trade Travel Gazette.

"As we move towards a second wave it is crucial that the Government provides sector specific financial packages to the travel industry to ensure that it survives the COVID-19 pandemic."