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Package travel added to CMA's Covid conduct probe

Government
Tom Parry
21 May 2020

Package travel has now been added to the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) investigation into firms’ conduct amid the coronavirus due to "the number and nature" of consumer complaints.

The destination tracker will highlight the Covid danger levels in holiday destinations (pic iStock)

In an update issued on Thursday (21 May), the CMA said "practices of concern" it had uncovered during its probe included "refusing refunds; making it very difficult for consumers to obtain refunds; and insisting that consumers rebook or accept vouchers".

"Around 8,000 complaints" – a fifth of all cancellation complaints during its investigation - related to flights booked directly with airlines, the CMA said. 

It had initially prioritised weddings and private events; holiday accommodation providers and nurseries and childcare provision for its investigation to identify, monitor and respond to consumer problems arising from coronavirus.