As the nation heads towards a general election, Abta reveals its strategic priorities for the travel industry.
With a focus on sustainability, workforce development, and business competitiveness, Abta outlines a forward-thinking agenda.
Abta is advocating for the advancement of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) production, urging the government to have five SAF plants under construction in the next parliamentary term. The importance of maintaining affordable flight options while transitioning to net zero is emphasised, highlighting the need for investment incentives.
The travel association stresses the role of shoreside power in the cruise sector to achieve net zero targets. Abta calls for governmental support to build necessary infrastructure, marking it as a crucial step for environmental progress in travel.
Recognising the industry’s reliance on skilled labour, Abta seeks to reform the Apprenticeship Levy for greater flexibility in workforce training. This would support businesses in enhancing productivity through short courses and qualifications.
Additionally, Abta pushes for government approval of new education courses to replace the de-funded Level 3 travel and tourism curriculum. The focus is on embedding these initiatives successfully to secure the future workforce.
Abta underscores the significance of youth mobility agreements, calling for strengthening existing arrangements and negotiating new deals with EU countries.
Such agreements are seen as vital for boosting the UK economy and providing opportunities for young professionals in the travel industry.
Abta encourages the upcoming government to seize these opportunities presented by outbound travel to further enhance economic growth.
Describing the current business rates system as outdated, Abta suggests a revision to revitalize high streets and bolster business success. The transformation of this regime is crucial for adapting to modern market conditions.
Abta also highlights the necessity for the government to collaborate internationally in implementing e-visa schemes, aiming to minimise travel disruptions.
Abta warns against future increases in Air Passenger Duty (APD) and additional carbon taxes, urging for the removal of existing anomalies in the tax system.
The association stresses the potential of the travel industry to surpass other sectors in growth. It calls for governmental action to harness the economic benefits of outbound travel effectively.
Abta’s public affairs director, Luke Petherbridge, highlights ongoing strategic efforts in youth mobility and educational reform. These are pivotal issues that will require persistent advocacy to influence the future government.
The association stresses the urgency of setting clear expectations for the next government to ensure industry advancement.
Even without a confirmed election date, the travel sector prepares to assert its priorities and engage with political leaders.
Abta’s manifesto articulates a comprehensive vision for the travel industry’s future.
By advocating for sustainability, workforce growth, and economic competitiveness, Abta sets a proactive agenda to influence the incoming UK government.
