RAISING CONCERNS ABOUT STAFF AND CUSTOMERS IN THE WAKE OF THOMAS COOK COLLAPSE

The collapse of Thomas Cook UK means a very difficult time for the 9,000 staff who have unexpectedly found themselves out of work and owed wages, and the 150,000 holidaymakers stranded abroad. In addition there are thousands of people who have booked holidays and paid deposits who face uncertainty about whether they will be able to recoup their cash. This is a matter of particular concern to my constituents in North Ayrshire with Thomas Cook outlets in Saltcoats, Ayrshire and Largs now, sadly, closed.

In the face of such difficulties it is disappointing to hear reports of other airlines profiteering from this situation. I raised the issue with the UK Government.

The collapse of this company needs to be properly investigated to ensure that customers are not let down in such a way again, that employee wages and pensions are properly protected and that corporate greed is regulated and kept in check.