I fully appreciate constituents' concerns and the seriousness of the situation for the whole UK travel industry, which I recognise is facing real difficulty in light of the coronavirus outbreak. I have written to the Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy to raise these concerns.
I understand the UK Government has been engaging with both the package travel sector and consumer advocacy bodies to assess the impact of cancellations made due to the coronavirus outbreak. I am closely monitoring the situation too and taking on board the views of those living and working here in Heywood and Middleton constituency.
I want to reassure constituents that support is available right now for businesses who are struggling. The Government is deferring VAT payments due between now and the end of June, and all businesses in the retail, hospitality or leisure sectors are exempt from business rates for 12 months.
In addition, I would also encourage businesses in the travel industry who are facing cash flow problems and other difficulties to explore the Government-backed loans and guarantees that have been made available. A coronavirus job retention scheme has also been launched.
The full list of support available can be found at the following link: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/guidance-to-employers-and-businesses-about-covid-19/covid-19-support-for-businesses.
