Abta today issued guidance to support members’ contingency planning for a no-deal Brexit.
This covers a range of topics such as VAT arrangements, transport – including flights – visas, posting workers abroad and financial protection.
The travel association has acted after the EU and UK government issued information on the implications of a no-deal for businesses – while stressing that they still want to agree a Brexit deal.
Abta chief executive Mark Tanzer said: “Abta is today publishing information to support members’ contingency planning for a no-deal scenario.
“The new document identifies four categories for consideration: your business, your commercial partners, your people and your customers.
“The purpose of this information is to help members think about the implications that a no-deal Brexit might have on your business and to consider the steps you may wish to take to prepare.
“We do not make specific recommendations in the document, every business is different and you’ll need to assess the impact on your company and decide how to respond.”
He added: “The publication of this information does not mean that Abta expects a no-deal exit to materialise. Abta continues to stress the importance of a pragmatic solution in our discussions with the UK government, EU negotiating team and EU member state representatives, and we will be raising this once again when we meet with officials in Brussels in the coming weeks.
“Similarly, both the UK government and the EU have reiterated that they want to agree a deal, and that is very much their priority.
“However, both sides have recognised the importance of being prepared in the unlikely event that an agreement is not reached and are publishing guidance to companies and citizens to be prepared for all scenarios.
“It is important to note that this is a live document. It will be updated as and when new information comes to light, for example, there is further guidance still to come from government on preparing for a no-deal including around flights and coach travel.”
More: Brexit restrictions on low skilled workers ‘could damage UK travel sector’
‘Serious problems’ for hospitality in no-deal Brexit scenario