Increasing APD will be a “betrayal of trust†for Caribbean communities that have welcomed UK travellers, according to Virgin Holidays.
The tour operator said many communities have changed their infrastructures and their own policies to accommodate the travel industry and its customers.
“It’s disheartening that the announcement leaves both the environment vulnerable and those communities in destinations that have benefitted so greatly from tourism both economically and socially,†said managing director Amanda Wills.
“The most obvious impact of the ruling will be on flights to the Caribbean, a region whose islands are extremely dependent on tourism and the UK travel market specifically.
“We have worked closely with our Caribbean industry friends for over 22 years, and as such are acutely aware of the inevitable negative impact to livelihoods and quality of life that the charges scheduled for 2010 threatens.
“It is extremely disappointing to see the lack of Government commitment to the environment and overseas business communities that depend on the UK traveller, illustrated by the APD ruling. It is vital that the travel industry be heard and that this position reviewed urgently.â€
By Bev Fearis
