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Competition issues raised over EnglandNet
Thursday, 04 Sep, 2009
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Competition concerns have been raised over EnglandNet, the VisitEngland online accommodation booking system.
A complaint has been lodged to the European Commission claiming that as it is effectively subsidised by government, EnglandNet unfairly undercuts private rivals.
Devon-based cottage letting firm Helpful Holidays contends in its complaint that the system flouts EU competition rules as well as wasting taxpayers’ money.
Questionmarks over the value of EnglandNet have also been raised in other tourism industry quarters amid claims that only 2,030 bookings worth £354,718 were made in the six months to May despite £50 million invested in the service over five years.
There are claims that the service breaks competition laws because properties must hold AA or VisitBritain Quality in Tourism ratings to be included but other accommodation suppliers are prevented from advertising in tourism information centres.
Hospitality industry magazine Caterer says it has seen documents showing that the government has proposals for a new verification process to allow all accommodation providers to be featured on EnglandNet provided they meet new legal, safety and trading standards.
by Phil Davies
Phil Davies
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