CBI responds to international travel update

John Foster, CBI Director of Policy, said:

“The limited number of destinations on the green list means that businesses across the country are losing out on key links with trading partners just as the rest of the world is opening up. Of course, the UK mustn’t jeopardise the strides made through the vaccine programme, but the international travel sector is on its knees and unable to trade its way to recovery. Without a successful summer season, the government will need to consider further sector specific support to save jobs and skills essential for future growth.

“Travel policy needs to effectively prevent the spread of Covid from potential ‘red’ list countries, but also safely allow for more travel from lower-risk destinations. This could help boost business travel, fuelling growth by reconnecting firms with global markets.

“It’s crucial the new travel rules drive a globally competitive recovery while managing risks and safeguarding public health. Firms will be looking to the overall review of the Global Travel Taskforce framework on 28 June to help bring about a system which achieves this.”