An initial crowdfunding target to support a legal challenge to the government over its block on travel’s restart and failure to provide aid has been surpassed in just over 24 hours.
The appeal for support was issued by travel industry entrepreneur Clive Jacobs on Monday after progress towards a meaningful restart of the sector this summer was blocked by government restrictions.
Jacobs is seeking legal advice on behalf of the industry, with a potential group action aimed at forcing transparency on the methodology and data behind decisions on the traffic light system and claiming compensation for industry losses.
An initial target of £20,000 was reached on Tuesday morning, allowing Jacobs’ legal team to seek counsel from barristers on the viability of a claim. A stretch target of £200,000 has now been introduced to be drawn on if the action proceeds.
Jacobs said: “I’m absolutely blown away by the support I have received from the travel industry. As intended, that support has primarily come from those who work in the industry and entrepreneurs like me who are prepared to swim against the tide.”
He added: “My belief remains that the only way we will get justice for our industry is through the courts. The government is sticking its fingers in its ears and does not want to listen.”
Referring to the confirmation on Monday that domestic lockdown restrictions would be extended for a further month, Jacobs said: “The government showed yesterday that it is quite prepared to see businesses in our industry and related sectors fall by the wayside.
“My goal is to force transparency and to make sure those who are being damaged and destroyed get compensation.”