The latest drama related to UK travel that is not related to the third runway at Heathrow; it concerns whether or not the UK will leave the EU, also referred to as “Brexit”. Many are concerned because it allows for the open skies policy throughout Europe but if its ended, it could mean a decrease in tourism for the UK, as well as increasing the price of flights as the other countries will no longer be able to allow flights the dame effortless access they currently are allowed.
Recently, the bosses at Heathrow, Gatwick, and Manchester Airport are part of a group of UK business leaders who are calling for the UK to stay part of the EU. They believe with the current renegotiations that the Prime Minister has managed to secure, it’s best if they remain part of a reformed EU. This would include reducing the burden of regulation, deepen the single market and to sign off crucial international deals.
The following is from a letter that was sent to The Times on Feb 23rd from other travel signatories who include TUI Travel supervisory board member Peter Long, Ryanair Chief Executive Michael O’Leary, EasyJet Chief Executive Carolyn McCall, Air Asia and Tune Group Chief Executive Tony Fernandes and lastminute.com co-founder Martha Lane Fox. Those are big names indeed.
Here are some excerpts from the letter;
“Business needs unrestricted access to the European market of 500 million people in order to continue to grow, invest and create jobs.”
“We believe that leaving the EU would deter investment, threaten jobs and put the economy at risk. Britain will be stronger, safer and better off remaining a member of the EU.”
With these strong words coming from so many in the travel sector, all we can do is to wait and see whether or not the Prime Minister has succeeded.