ABTA is attending the largest number of political party conferences it ever has in one year in a bid to ramp up political lobbying.
The association will attend the Labour, Conservative, Liberal Democrat, Plaid Cymru, and SNP conferences over the next few weeks, with the aim of engaging with politicians and decision-makers. It attended Reform’s conference at the weekend.
ABTA will focus discussions on the competitiveness of the UK travel industry, including the impact of taxation and rising business-related costs, and the importance of sustaining the UK’s position as a world leader in aviation and travel.
It will also highlight the economic contribution of the travel industry, while underlining the need for policies that support its continued growth.
ABTA Director of Public Affairs Luke Petherbridge said: “Party conferences are an important opportunity to engage directly with politicians make sure the voice of the travel industry is heard as parties develop their policies and priorities.
“We’re attending more conferences this year in recognition of the changing shape of UK politics, and the need to engage across the political spectrum to make sure that the issues that matter to our members are understood by all parties.
“They’re also a good opportunity, as we look ahead to October’s Budget – the first under the new Prime Minister and Chancellor, to discuss what we need from this Budget to help travel businesses thrive and harness their growth potential.”
