British MPs back APD slash

Some 44 Members of the British Parliament are backing the campaign for a reduction in air passenger duty (APD). The alliance of more than 30 carriers and tour operators is urging MPs to support parliamentary a motion that voices concern about how APD effects ordinary families and their ability to travel by air. The motion also calls for new research into the overall impact of the levy on the economy.

Conservative Party 1922 Committee chairman Graham Brady, one of the MPs supporting the parliamentary motion, says that the UK has the highest air passenger tax in the world. This is harming the competitiveness of the nation, as well as adding costs to millions of people’s lifestyles. He hopes the Treasury will be convinced to look at the impact of this damaging levy again, he added.

The campaign is also being backed by the Taxpayer’s Alliance and Institute of Directors. Simon Walker, director general of the Institute of Directors, says air passenger taxes in the UK are the highest in the world, which is harming the economy in several ways. All the hard work put into building tourism and inward investment is being hindered by this unfair levy, he added.

This comes as new stats from the Airport Operators Association (AOA) show that a family of four flying in economy class from the UK this year will pay nearly an average 400 per cent more in tax than if they made the trip from another European country that imposes an air passenger tax. The eight per cent APD hike in April meant that a family of four flying to Europe has to pay an extra £52.

Caribbean News Digital