Holidaymakers From Fraudsters And Failed Travel Firms

The Trading Standards Institute (TSI) today demands urgent action to protect holidaymakers from losing out when travel companies and airlines go bust or disappear.

Millions of people will book holidays abroad next year – and many will be unaware they have no financial protection if disaster strikes, the TSI warns during National Consumer Week (November 20-24).

‘The laws and regulations designed to protect holidaymakers are now outdated and woefully inadequate,’ said TSI’s lead officer for holidays and travel, Bruce Treloar.

‘The way people book their holidays these days has changed dramatically, particularly with the rise of the Internet and the use of budget airlines.

‘However, the laws have not kept pace with this change. They do not adequately protect consumers if they fall foul of disreputable companies or if companies go bust.

‘Nor are consumers clear about what risks they are taking with their money or about which companies they can trust.

‘The whole situation is a real mess and we urgently need the Government and the industry to sort it out before the big holiday booking season kicks in after Christmas.’

Ron Gainsford, the TSI’s chief executive, said: ‘The situation for consumers is confusing and getting worse.

‘We have always advised consumers to use reputable, ABTA member travel agents as their money would be guaranteed from the moment they handed over a deposit

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