Hot on the heels of a cabinet reshuffle, ABTA this week launched a new manifesto in the House of Commons highlighting our key political priorities for the industry ahead of the next General Election. A manifesto for jobs and growth in tourism sets out clearly for MPs and for prospective candidates the vital contribution our industry makes to UK plc, highlighting the crucial role that travel and tourism plays in generating growth and jobs. With MPs from all parts of the political spectrum in attendance, ABTA voiced clearly our key asks around aviation, Air Passenger Duty and consumer protection and reminded MPs that as well accounting for a £127bn contribution to the economy, our sector is responsible for 3.1 million jobs, representing 10% of the UK workforce. With new ABTA research showing how diverse and flexible we are as employers and as businesses, we were able to remind policymakers just how innovative, dynamic and important the travel and tourism industry is to the UK and why they as policymakers need to get regulation and infrastructure right to support future growth. It was encouraging to hear MPs including Iain Stewart, Conservative MP for Milton Keynes South, recognising the vital role that ABTA has played, and continues to play, in bringing the views of the tourism industry into political circles.  We will continue to fight hard to ensure our voice is heard on the issues that matter to our Members as the journey to the 2015 Election continues. 

Mark Tanzer, Chief Executive

Pictured with Mark Tanzer at the launch are hosts L: Jim Fitzpatrick MP and R: Iain Stewart MP.