The Liberal Democrats are leading a cross-party effort to secure Government agreement for an economic package to support the UK’s airlines in return to commitments to tackle the climate emergency.
Writing to the Chancellor, the cross-party group of parliamentarians have warned that without government support future fares may raise while “tens of thousands more will lose their jobs through no fault of their own.”
MPs from across the political spectrum have signed the letter and agreed “if public money is used to save them, they must be required by law to do more to tackle climate change.”
Liberal Democrat Transport Spokesperson, Sarah Olney, coordinated the letter. She said: “The Coronavirus crisis is an unprecedented threat. Thousands of families will face financial hardship, including many who rely on employment in the airline and travel industries.
“The Government must urgently resolve the gaps in their plans and come forward with a bespoke package to airlines and travel operators to stop job losses. But support should come at a price. Airlines, airports and travel operators are one of the biggest single contributors to global emissions and they must be made to do more to tackle climate change.
“Liberal Democrats are therefore calling on the Government to step in and offer financial support to travel companies in need. By providing funds to the travel industry and demanding that they implement strict carbon offsetting schemes, we can help save both the planet and jobs.”