The Conservative proposals perpetuate the tactic of using a blunt instrument against airlines and their passengers, and using the revenues generated, for non-environmental purposes.

Aviation is a critical component to the economic well-being of all countries. Holidaymakers leaving the UK are just one part of the scenario, but critics simply overlook all the other aspects of air travel including outbound business travellers, inward travellers of all sorts, plus the considerable amount of freight carried by air, all of which constitute such an important of the UK's overall economy. The impact of these proposals would be felt even more in the regions, where air travel is so vital for connecting flights, or in saving time compared to other means of travel.

BARUK is encouraged that the Conservative Party recognises that APD is an ineffective tool in tackling emissions reductions. However, replacing one ineffective tax with another is not the solution. Smart, market based solutions, such as carbon trading schemes should be considered, rather than additional taxes that bring no environmental benefit.

In meeting the challenges of climate change, it is about time that political parties of all complexions engaged the aviation community in objective discussions as to what can be achieved by working together, rather than politicians, yet again, trying to hog the headlines with totally ineffective policies. BAR UK, and many others in the aviation community, look forward to that day.

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BAR UK represents over 90 scheduled airlines in the UK in their dealings with Government, Government departments, regulators and airport operators. Full details can be found at www.bar-uk.org.