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WTTC warns of mass travel job losses if UK restrictions return
The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) predicts 180,000 jobs could be lost across the UK tourism sector this year, if travel restrictions are re-imposed this winter.
It made the warning after analysis showed the impact caused by a further tightening of borders.
The figures were revealed by Julia Simpson, WTTC President and CEO, during the 2021 Tourism Alliance Conference.
Further damage could be made to the sector if new restrictions are imposed, such as the new potential measures which would see all travellers requiring a booster jab before they travel overseas.
Recent reports suggest this is being considered by ministers in an attempt to increase protection from Covid-19 for the fully vaccinated.
Currently only available to the over 50’s, so far, less than 20% of population in the UK have received the booster jab.
This represents a minority of those able to travel, and such a move would once again leave millions unable to go abroad.
"We cannot afford to let all the hard-earned progress we’ve made this year, slide back and be reversed. Too many people’s livelihoods are at risk, as well as the continuing economic recovery of the UK," Julia Simpson, WTTC President and CEO said.
A recent report by WTTC showed how restrictions such as the traffic light system, will see international visitor spend fall by almost 50% on 2020 figures, making the UK one of the worst performing countries.
Further analysis from WTTC shows the government could see up to £5.3 billion wiped from the sector’s contribution to the economy before the end of 2021 if travel restrictions come back into force.
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Editor for TravelMole North America and Asia pacific regions. Ray is a highly experienced (15+ years) skilled journalist and editor predominantly in travel, hospitality and lifestyle working with a huge number of major market-leading brands. He has also cover in-depth news, interviews and features in general business, finance, tech and geopolitical issues for a select few major news outlets and publishers.
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