In recognition of the ongoing uncertainty around Brexit and the importance of helping customers travel with confidence, we have re-launched our social media advertising campaign which directs travellers to ABTA’s website for information and advice about travelling after Brexit.

The campaign will run for two weeks across Facebook. The message says ‘Confused about what Brexit means for your holiday? ABTA has practical advice for travellers. Visit: abta.com/brexit’

We first launched this campaign in December and reached 1.8 million people. The webpage – abta.com/brexit has had over 120,000 views. It is being updated as and when we have further information, and updates on trains and coach trips have been added this week.

Turning our attention to the political process, this week the Prime Minister confirmed the next steps in the voting process on Brexit for MPs:

• 12th March (latest). MPs will have a meaningful vote on the current Withdrawal Agreement.
• 13th March (latest). If not enough MPs vote for the Withdrawal Agreement, MPs will then vote on whether the UK should leave the EU on 29 March without a deal. 
• 14th March (latest). If MPs vote against leaving the EU without a deal on 29 March, MPs will then vote on whether to extend Article 50 for a short period.

What is important to be clear on from these votes is that even if on 13th March MPs vote against leaving on 29th March without a deal, no-deal could still be an option for further down the line if MPs vote for an extension. It is also possible that the EU could deny any request for an extension. 

What this tells businesses is that we still need to plan for every eventuality and work to make customers aware of any actions they may need to take.

Today we have published version seven of ABTA’s guidance for Members on contingency planning for Brexit. Updates are indicated in the contents section of the paper.

Mark Tanzer, Chief Executive