FINANCIAL PROTECTION FOR UK AIR TRAVELLERS

Early day motion 137, tabled 18 May 2005 by Louise Ellman (Labour). Signed by 117 members.

That this House expresses serious concern that millions of holidaymakers are flying without travel protection due to recent changes in the travel sector; notes that, if an airline were to go bankrupt, UK consumers would be stranded abroad, with significant financial and political implications for the taxpayer; welcomes the Civil Aviation Authority's advice to the Government to introduce a modest levy on all outbound UK flights until a self-financing fund is established; further notes that this cheap and proportionate solution will cover 100 per cent. of UK air travellers; further notes that consumers value financial protection for air travel; commends the strong support in the travel sector for these proposals; and calls on the Government to legislate to protect UK consumers at the earliest opportunity.

Signatures by party: Labour 72, Liberal Democrat 27, Conservative 10, Plaid Cymru 3, DUP 2, Scottish National Party 1, Social Democratic and Labour Party 1, UUP 1.