The proposed restructuring of ABTA could be derailed by growing opposition on the board and apathy among members.
Two more board members have joined Alan Cornish of Corona Holidays in voicing opposition with just 100 votes needed to defeat the plans.
Board member Daniele Broccoli, of Britaly Travel, has already voted against the changes, which would cut the board from 18 to nine with four seats for elected members, a fifth for an elected president, the chief executive and three appointees.
A third rebel board member declined to be identified ahead of a board meeting on Wednesday, but Cornish expressed increasing confidence that members could overturn the proposals.
Members can vote by post, by proxy or in person at an extraordinary general meeting on April 3, when a 75% majority is needed for the proposals to go through.
If turnout matches the 25% or less in previous ABTA ballots, about 100 votes would mean rejection.
A small number of members have attended ABTA roadshows to discuss the issue – in London last week there were about 30. Another 18 were at an Eastern regional meeting addressed by chief executive Mark Tanzer on Monday. A members’ conference call on Tuesday was cancelled due to lack of interest.
Broccoli said: “I am for reducing the board, but I want to see one or two more members.” Eastern Region chairman Peter Cansick said he has yet to make up his mind, but added: “It is presented as all or nothing and that worries some members.”
The defections undermine a claim by Tanzer that “the board is fully behind this”.
Cornish said: “There will be other board members against this. Why can’t we discuss this properly?”
- Comment and discussion:All change at ABTA on the Travel Weekly Blog