What targeted support could the government offer the travel industry in the UK?

As we approach almost 12 months of unimaginable disruption to global travel, it is hard to see when things will start to recover. With current restrictions in place in the UK, barriers to entry around the world and new quarantine measures being introduced for UK entry from the 15th February, it is clear that the UK government do not intended to kick start our ability to travel internationally anytime soon.

Even with more positive news on the vaccination program gaining pace in the UK and around the world, sadly this is not the magic bullet many hoped it would be. Emerging new strains of the virus, talk of autumn booster jab requirements, questionable efficacy in some countries and the slow speed to roll out programmes in many countries, all cast shadow on the light at the end of the tunnel.

Whilst the UK furlough scheme has protected some/many jobs and the CBIL loan scheme is acting as a safety net for cash flow, this is about the extent of support offered to an industry that has effectively been ground to a halt. For many in our industry, furlough and CBILs have offered no support at all. Already we have seen too many job losses and companies having to shut their doors for good.

That is not to say that I don’t acknowledge the extreme sacrifices many industries face, that not every job can be saved and not every business was strong before the pandemic. I am acutely aware that many other industries are in the same situation, such as the arts and events. I am also not saying that, in these times, all borders should be open and we should be allowed to freely travel as we so wish.

But is the UK travel industry getting a fair and balanced level of support?

It seems that any questions presented to the government about targeted support are met with responses along the lines of “We are in regular communication with airlines and airports” who will be top of the list for bailouts and cash. When will the government acknowledge that our amazing UK travel industry is made up of so many more parts than airlines, airports and the large tour operators.

Where is the dialogue and support for our owner operated travel businesses? Our niche operators and independent travel advisors? Our network of small to medium sized travel agents and tour operators whom employ 1000’s of professional roles up and the down the country?

It is hard not to feel that the industry has all but been abandoned with no dialogue whatsoever on how to support us.

It is clear that international travel will not be opening up from the 1st May and furlough is due to end in at the end of April. So what targeted support is needed? Is an extension of furlough enough? What targeted support could be offered?

Or, do we just have to accept this is the situation we are in and fight for survival in the knowledge that many won’t survive?