CONSUMER CHAMPION Hoping to holiday abroad this year? Don’t pack yet

THE GOVERNMENT’S roadmap out of the lockdown stated that the earliest date people from England, Scotland and Wales will be able to holiday abroad is May 17. However, UK holidaymakers and the travel industry face further uncertainty following the announcement of confusing new rules to come that apparently contradict the current roadmap. Here is what you need to know:

WHAT ARE THE NEW RULES?

A law known as The Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) (Steps) (England) Regulations 2021 is set to come into force on Monday. Under the new legislation it will be illegal to travel overseas before June 30, 2021. The rules provide for a fixed fine of £5,000 for anyone who breaches the law by travelling overseas, unless the purpose of travel falls within one of the exemptions.

WHAT ARE THE EXEMPTIONS?

There are several exceptions in the law under which travel overseas is allowed. These include travel for work, study, legal obligations or to vote; if you are moving, selling or renting property; for childcare reasons or to be present at a birth; to visit a dying relative or close friend; to attend a funeral; for those getting married or to attend the wedding of a close relative; for medical appointments; or to escape a risk of harm.

The new ban does not apply to those going to or from the common travel area of the Channel Islands, Isle of Man and the Republic of Ireland unless that is not the final destination. If you believe the purpose of your travel will fall into one of the exemptions you will need to complete a Declaration to Travel form, stating the valid reason for leaving the country.

I HAVE A HOLIDAY BOOKED FOR MAY OR JUNE, SHOULD I NOW CANCEL?

If you cancel, the holiday provider will have a good excuse not to refund you. Leave the cancellation to the provider, giving you the legal right to your money back. I’ll be discussing this issue further and answering questions on my LBC radio show tomorrow night at 9pm.