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Covid-19: Support for Aviation, Tourism and Travel Industries — [Dr Rupa Huq in the Chair]

24 June 2021

Lead MP

Henry Smith
Crawley
Con

Responding Minister

Robert Courts

Tags

EmploymentCulture, Media & Sport
Word Count: 13900
Other Contributors: 14

At a Glance

Henry Smith raised concerns about covid-19: support for aviation, tourism and travel industries — [dr rupa huq in the chair] in Westminster Hall. A government minister responded.

Key Requests to Government:

Mr. Smith urged for a more pragmatic regime regarding amber and green list countries under the traffic light system. He supported measures like testing rather than quarantine for vaccinated travelers from amber countries but advocated for further expansion of the green list, suggesting that rapid antigen testing could be an appropriate measure alongside PCR tests if needed.

How the Debate Unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:

Lead Contributor

Crawley
Opened the debate
Mr. Henry Smith expressed significant concerns about the impact of the pandemic on aviation, tourism, and travel industries. He highlighted that more than 1.5 million people were employed in these sectors before the pandemic, but approximately half remain furloughed with jobs at risk as furlough ends in September. The unemployment rate in top 20 aviation communities increased by 147% compared to a national increase of 115%. He noted that outbound travel contributes £37 billion and inbound travel adds £28 billion to the UK economy, with an estimated £19 billion contribution if operations could resume meaningfully over summer.

Government Response

Robert Courts
Government Response
The government recognises the importance of international travel, connecting families and supporting the economy. The cautious approach balances reopening with managing variant risks using the traffic light system. Difficult decisions are made based on JBC data. Measures will be reviewed regularly to ensure safety and sustainability.
Assessment & feedback
Summary accuracy

About Westminster Hall Debates

Westminster Hall debates are a chance for MPs to raise important issues affecting their constituents and get a response from a government minister. Unlike Prime Minister's Questions, these debates are more in-depth and collaborative. The MP who secured the debate speaks first, other MPs can contribute, and a minister responds with the government's position.