Cruises Covid-19 Travel Advice 2021-04-29
2021-04-29
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The cruise industry is a significant economic contributor, particularly in areas like Southampton. The MP seeks to understand the discussions on amending travel advice for cruises.
What recent discussions has the government had with (a) the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs and (b) representatives of the cruise industry on amending the COVID-19 travel advice on cruises?
The Department for Transport engages regularly with the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, the devolved Administrations and the cruise industry on the global travel taskforce and cruise restart. Travel advice is the responsibility of the FCDO.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific discussions and details about amending the current travel advice for cruises were not provided.
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
The cruise industry significantly contributes to local economies. The MP inquires about the travel regime for countries with emerging variants of concern.
With health considerations, how does the travel regime operate under the traffic light system with countries that have emerging variants of concern or prevalent spread, and what measures will be taken to prevent transmission?
My Department continues to work closely with the FCDO and with the Department of Health and Social Care. A framework drawn up by the cruise industry informs health protocols on board ships, recognised as good practice by the UN's International Maritime Organisation. We will see a safe restart of international cruises in accordance with those protocols.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific details about how the travel regime operates under the traffic light system were not provided.
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
The cruise industry is a major employer in areas like Southampton. The MP questions the alignment between travel advice for cruises and aviation.
Given that British travellers are advised against cruising despite easing restrictions on flying, can the Minister work with colleagues to align international travel advice for cruises with that for aviation?
A home port call generates approximately £2.95 million, highlighting the importance of cruises for employment in Southampton and other ports. The restart of domestic cruises has been confirmed, and international cruises will restart alongside wider travel. I am committed to working with colleagues at the FCDO and across Government to see a safe restart of international cruises as soon as possible.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific actions or timelines for aligning cruise advice with aviation were not provided.
Response accuracy