East Midlands MEP plays crucial role in giving Package holidaymakers greater peace of mind

With package holidays being increasingly booked online, East Midlands Conservative MEP Emma McClarkin has today welcomed a vote in the European Parliament today, which would bring an EU law providing protection for travellers up to date.

The law on package holidays was last set in 1990 – during the days when package holidays were booked at the travel agents, with holidaymakers browsing through brochures. Today, most holidays are booked online with greater customisation of packages, either through one trader or several linked websites.

The updated law would make sure consumers have clearer information when booking a package or a customised holiday. The proposals will clear up who is responsible should a travel service not perform and it establishes a single point of contact to ensure that consumers know who to address with their complaints.

It will also guarantee greater cancellation protection when a trip must be cancelled due to unforeseen and extraordinary circumstances, and it gives holidaymakers a right to receive a refund and be repatriated in the event that one of the holiday providers goes bankrupt whilst they are away.

Miss McClarkin has been one of MEPs working on the directive. Speaking after today’s vote, she said:

” With package holidays being increasingly booked online, this report updates the current legislation and hopes to create more of a level playing field for all market players, while importantly maintaining consumer choice as well as giving clarity to consumers on their protection.

“These new rules make it clear, to both travellers and travel companies, who is responsible for resolving their complaints and providing assistance.

“The internet has revolutionised how we book our holidays but EU law has been 20 years out of date. We have finally addressed the grey areas to ensure that people can book their holidays with peace of mind.”

As soon as the European elections are over, it is hoped that MEPs and EU governments will reach an early agreement on this directive so that people have increased peace of mind when booking their holidays online.