Derek Moore, AITO Chairman, comments on the ATOL reforms:
p>Derek Moore, AITO Chairman, comments on the ATOL reforms: ?We welcome what the government has said and we?re very pleased to hear that the government intends to implement by the end of the year. We?re also pleased to read that the minister believes there is a case for primary legislation which she?ll be considering further in the course of the year. There is obviously a lot of detail, and the devil is in the detail, but our initial thoughts are that we find the proposal very encouraging and it should help to level the playing field, bring credibility back to the ATOL system and it is good news for consumer. As AITO already believes in fully protecting any services our members, the CAA?s thinking is moving in our direction but is less welcome news to those who have misrepresented their intentions in the past.?
Mike Greenacre, managing director of The Co-operative Travel, said: ?Whilst we broadly welcome today?s announcement, it is absolutely vital that at the end of the consultation period holidaymakers are left in no doubt whatsoever as to whether or not their holiday is protected ? no matter what method or mix of products they use to make a booking. ?We are extremely disappointed that airlines and website click-through sales are excluded from the scheme, when what is really needed is one rule for all to absolutely protect travellers? rights. ?This will not only give travellers peace of mind when booking a break, it will also help to boost consumer confidence in the travel industry after an extremely difficult and testing 2010.
