Reform government pledges to scrap Air Passenger Duty
Flying taxes would be eliminated under a Reform government to reduce the cost of family holidays, Nigel Farage has pledged, reports BritPanorama.
The party has committed to abolishing Air Passenger Duty (APD) for short-haul journeys as one of its initial actions if elected. This move aims to ease financial burdens on families looking to travel.
Farage stated, “We believe that if you set your alarm, get up early and work hard then the government should give you a break.” He presented this policy as a “Brexit benefit” intended to place more money back in the pockets of citizens.
Aspiring Chancellor Robert Jenrick estimated that the policy could save the average family £45 for flights to Europe. He unveiled the announcement at Heathrow Airport, asserting, “In our first budget we will get rid of the Family Holiday Tax.” He further noted that Air Passenger Duty would be abolished for adults traveling with children under 18.
Jenrick highlighted a savings point, stating that flying to Malaga would yield a 23% reduction in flight costs, a saving he acknowledged might seem modest but could significantly enhance family travel opportunities. He criticized Chancellor Rachel Reeves for increasing flying taxes amidst the ongoing cost of living crisis.
Starting tomorrow, the APD is set to rise from £13 to £15 for economy short-haul flights abroad. The Reform party estimates that the abolition of the tax will cost £120 million, which they plan to fund from £40 billion in savings to the migrant and welfare budget.
A spokesperson for Heathrow expressed support for the initiative, stating, “Aviation is crucial to the UK’s economy and high levels of air passenger duty are a barrier to connectivity and our ability to compete internationally.” They welcomed any proposals aimed at reducing air passenger duty.
The commitment to abolish such taxes reflects a strategic focus on economic support for families, indicating a potential shift in government priorities should Reform come to power.
