Air Passenger Duty is to be redesigned in March, according to
a Government source.
At a specially convened meeting at Caribbean Marketplace
between the UK press and Minister Ed Bartlett of Jamaica, the group
were informed that according to 'source' the Government will make
an announcement on March 23 with regard to the future of APD.
Bartlett explained to the group that after a long process of
meetings, reports and general lobbying, the Coalition Government
has undertaken to proceed with a detailed consultation process that
will last approximately 6-8 weeks after which a 're-design' of APD
will be announced.
The Caribbean Tourism community in the form of CTO have
suggested a new two-tier approach, one for long haul and one for
short haul flights.
The revenue neutral proposition will mean a raise in APD for
short haul destinations and a lowering and reorganisation of fees
for long haul.
"We have the definite feeling that there is global tourism
groundswell of opinion that supports a new approach to APD," said
Bartlett.
"We have been approached by South Africa to attend a meeting
at ITB in March alongside other nations to discuss more formally
our joint approach. In addition we have support from WTTC, ABTA,
BTA and UNWTO."
Bartlett suggested that the Government will not implement the
European community ETS tax.
He also believes that because of the improving economic
outlook for 2012 and beyond, the level of APD tax will remain at
2011 levels for the foreseeable future but under a new
structure.
"What happens if the consultation fails to budget Chancellor
Osbourne? We do have plan B that will involve engaging in
international diplomacy with global trade groups and associations,
but we don't believe that this will be required." added
Bartlett.
