ABTA – The Travel Association will launch a comprehensive feedback programme to seek its Members’ views in response to today’s Call for Evidence on the future of the ATOL scheme published by the Department for Transport (DfT).

The DfT has stated that they wish to review the UK’s approach to the funding of financial protection arrangements in the travel industry. The Call for Evidence is an initial step in a consultation process that may eventually see important changes to the way the ATOL and package travel protection schemes operate and are funded.

Mark Tanzer, CEO ABTA said: “Although it is very early in the process, this Call for Evidence may ultimately result in some fundamental changes to financial protection in the travel industry.  As with all changes to policy it is important that the industry’s case is made early and made well and I urge all Members, particularly ATOL-holders and other package travel organisers, to come forward with their views to help shape our response to Government.”

“It is important to note there are no immediate changes announced or indicated in the Call for Evidence, which may come as reassuring news to travel businesses who are still adjusting to last year’s reforms of the ATOL scheme.”

ABTA has planned a comprehensive programme to seek Members’ feedback on the proposals. The Association will be in touch with Members via an online survey in the next two weeks explaining the key points, how it might affect their businesses and inviting them to submit their views. ABTA will then host a number of workshops around the UK to give Members the opportunity to discuss the key issues, followed by a webinar for those unable to attend a face-to-face meeting.  ABTA will submit its response to the DfT in the second week of August.

ABTA will provide more detailed updates through ABTA Today and on its website www.abta.com in the coming weeks.