Consumer rights and the long term sustainability of the travel industry

That this House recognises that this is a time of unprecedented challenge for the travel industry; is deeply concerned that an investigation by consumer rights organisation Which? has found that all of the UK’s 20 largest travel operators and airlines are openly breaking the law by delaying refunds for cancelled trips or removing customers refund rights; understands that The Package Travel Regulations state consumers should receive a full refund within 14 days of a cancellation by a tour operator, and that the Denied Boarding Regulations state if a flight is cancelled in the UK or EU consumers should be refunded within seven days; acknowledges that while this is an extremely challenging time for airlines and travel operators, many consumers are also now facing severe financial pressures due to the coronavirus pandemic, with up £7 billion in payments made by UK customers affected by this outbreak; recognises that whilst many operators are offering the choice of rebooking or vouchers and credit notes, these offers could become worthless if companies go bust; understands that a number of smaller travel operators have been commended by customers and consumer organisations for continuing to process refunds as normal; and calls on the Government to step in and take swift and tangible action to protect consumer confidence in the industry as well as ensuring the long-term sustainability of the travel industry.