Transport Secretary’s perceived ‘flippancy’ angers industry

Thursday, 18 Jan, 2021 0

Travel bosses have rounded on a perceived ‘flippant’ remark made by Transport Secretary Grant Shapps which was reported by a Saturday tabloid newspaper.

Shapps was asked by the BBC on 16 January whether it was wise for the over-50s to book their summer holidays.

His reply was picked up by the Daily Star on its front page, interpreting his answer as him effectively saying ‘don’t ask me, I haven’t got a clue’ alongside an image of Shapps in a Hawaiian shirt, sipping a cocktail next to a beach.

Using Twitter to respond to Shapps’ comments, Miles Morgan, owner of Miles Morgan Travel said: "Thank you @DavidTCDavies for writing to @grantshapps on behalf of both myself and the whole travel industry. Seeing Mr Shapps’ flippant comment yesterday, we really do require some solid answers and plan. Global Travel Taskforce….when???"

Morgan had uploaded a letter from David Davies, Conservative MP for Monmouth and Parliamentary Under Secretary of State, sent on 15 January asking Shapps to respond to an email from Morgan asking for an update on the Global Travel Taskforce, launched in November and aimed at ‘opening up international travel and boosting businesses’.

A report was published on 24 November, but nothing has been updated since. In his letter, Davies also reiterated calls for a ‘roadmap to recovery’ for the travel industry.

Jo Rzymowska, vice president and managing director UK & Ireland at Celebrity Cruises responded: "His arrogance and flippancy is disgraceful. A constant smirk on his face and it is quite clear he has no concern or interest in helping the travel industry."

By Louise Longman, Contributing Editor (UK)

The Detroit Metro Convention & Visitors Bureau (DMCVB) is the only organization that promotes metro Detroit regionally, nationally and...

The Oregon Tourism Commission, dba Travel Oregon, works to enhance visitors’ experiences by providing information, resources and trip planning tools...

Palladium Hotel Group is a renowned Spanish hotel chain that first emerged towards the end of the 1960s. Currently present...

If you’re thinking of cruising, there’s a very good chance you’re considering a Carnival cruise. Growing since our founding in...

We work with reliable data providers with global coverage, that guarantee data representativeness as well as compliance with International Personal...

WANDERERS WELCOME to MISSISSIPPI Mississippi is a state for all those who are wanderers at heart. From lush, forested Appalachian foothills to...

Take your clients’ vacation to the next level at Universal Orlando Resort™. With three amazing theme parks – Universal Studios...

Holiday Extras is the UK market leader in airport parking, airport hotels, worldwide airport lounges, destination car hire, airport transfers...

Global Hotel Alliance brings together a unique collection of independent hospitality brands for GHA DISCOVERY, a multi-brand loyalty programme. GHA...

Located in the heart of the Northeast and within easy driving distance of a third of the population of the...

Discover Sarawak Revealing a side of Asia unlike anywhere else, Sarawak offers an alternative for those seeking humble authenticity far...

With long periods of Thailand’s History, according to evidences and studies, Sukhothai was the first kingdom of Thailand. At that time, an early Thai...

Here at Elegant Resorts, luxury travel is in our DNA. True pioneers in the industry, we were the first specialist...

IHG Hotels & Resorts: Redefining Hospitality Excellence IHG Hotels & Resorts is a globally renowned hospitality company that stands at...

Destination British Columbia (Destination BC) is a Provincially funded, industry-led Crown corporation that supports a strong and competitive future for BC’s...