Stowawae has been away/busy.

Having officially "retired" on 6th June - two months later there seems an endless stream of things that have to be done and which keep me really busy and unfocused on the travel world.   However, HTR3 is very much back in the news with speculation as to whether the PM has got the political will to come out and support the third runway. Also MPs from all parties are now calling for the HTR3 to become a reality in the country's long term interests.    As speculated before in my blog it appears that a path is being prpared to allow "Dave" to do a U-Turn due to inescapable practical arguments which the industry (and Unions even) have been pointing out for several years.  Unfortunately it appears that there are many in the coalition who hope he does not change his opinion.  In the USA they have crime called "Reckless Endangerment" and if HTR3 is not given the go-ahead soon, these antis oughtt to be charged with it for recklessly endangering the future prospects of the UK economy.

Over 100,000 people have lobbied their MP's about Air Passenger duty and the need to seriously review this tax on inward investment and tourism.    Hence there is a lot beginning to stir on that front and a lots of political blood will now doubt be spilt before a final decision is made on any of these issues. 

It does seem tho that APD and the lack of a strategic and sustainable UK Aviation Policy are  becoming area much hotter issues than before.  Or perhaps I got that wrong?  Perhaps HTR3 is getting cooler?  Before it was so politically hot that  no one seemingly had the guts to tackle it head on.  Now it seems its becoming cool enough to set hands to.      It will be interesting to see whether the Labour party will support HTR3 as they did before the last General Election or whether national interests will survive political (vote catching) considerations.  

One thing which I would like to see on the Agenda from the Government is a reduction in taxes, as Mayor Boris has stated publicly  VAT is a tax on consumption.  When Brits and tourists (not to mention overseas investors), spend here they help stimulate the economy.  High taxes deter spending and do the opposite surely or am I being naieve?