Merriman, the Conservative MP for Bexhill and Battle in East Sussex, made a name for himself during Covid through his role as chair of parliament’s transport committee.
At the time, Aito chair Chris Rowles said: "He simply ‘gets’ travel, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises and the huge challenges we’ve faced over the past several years."
He was subsequently appointed to a ministerial role attached to the Department for Transport in October 2022. However, he was given a UK rail brief rather than an aviation or outbound travel-focused post.
Merriman confirmed his intention not to seek re-election on Thursday (23 May). "I leave with a heavy heart," he said.
