Hopes are fading that consumer protection will be extended in 2010 by reforming the ATOL scheme.
Talks between senior trade figures and the Department for Transport (DfT) suggested a reformed scheme – requiring ATOL cover for a sale of any flight plus another holiday element – would not be in place until April 2011.
There was speculation that reform could be completed in time for the spring 2010 ATOL renewals.
The DfT is drafting proposals to present to the trade in a 12-week consultation anticipated in November. The consultation will run into February, making completion unlikely ahead of a general election that must take place by June.
Thomas Cook director of government and external affairs Andy Cooper, an ABTA board member, said: “Reform is likely to be post-election.”