MP laments loss of holiday giant and says a new future beckons

Government task force says £59 million redundancy paid out to Thomas Cook staff

Peterborough MP Paul Bristow has urged the city to the look to the future as it attracts more job-creating companies.

His comments came after it was revealed that £59 million in redundancy payments had been made to 8,281 former staff of the collapsed Peterborough travel operator Thomas Cook.

The figures were revealed by the task force set up to look after the wellbeing of 9,000

UK staff who were left without jobs after the holiday firm’s collapse last September.

The task force was made up of representatives of local and central Government, unions and trade associations, and has been wound up after nine months’ work.

Mr Bristow said: “Losing an iconic Peterborough brand like Thomas Cook was a big blow.

“Not least on those who worked there often after giving long years of service.

“The Government listened and responded by setting up a task force and supporting those who were made redundant.

“What is important now is that we look to the future and write a new chapter in our city’s economic history.

“Peterborough is attracting new companies and jobs.

“And I know after the Covid-19 emergency, with the right help we can power Peterborough’s economy, providing regeneration and jobs.”

Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority Mayor James Palmer, who was a member of the task force, said: “My support doesn’t end here. Since Covid-19 broke out, we have launched a range of measures, including business funding, training and job matching.”

Thomas Cook, which had 1,000-plus staff in Peterborough.

Peterborough MP Paul Bristow.