Airlines demand UK relax noise rules and cut flight tax as fuel shortage looms
Airlines are lobbying the UK government to relax environmental and noise rules, modify passenger rights and cut taxes on flying, as they prepare for higher costs and a possible shortage of jet fuel because of the war in the Middle East. A list of policy requests submitted to ministers and the aviation regulator includes suspending the emissions trading scheme and relaxing limits on night flights, it has emerged. Airlines are also seeking to alter compensation rights for passengers by having fuel-related disruption counted as an extraordinary circumstances – meaning stranded passengers would not be entitled to payouts beyond refunds in the event of cancellations or delay. [Guardian]
Stronger energy rules for the UK
Billpayers are set to benefit from a stronger energy regulator, under reforms of its remit set out by the government today (22 April). The transformation will empower the regulator to ensure energy consumers are treated fairly, including measures to guarantee good practice in the market. This is the first major update to Ofgem’s scope since the regulator was founded in 2000. [GOV.UK]
Migrant first to be convicted under new crossing law
An Afghan migrant has become the first person to be convicted of endangering others during a sea crossing to the UK. Tajik Mohammad, 32, had been piloting an overcrowded dinghy across the English Channel in poor weather conditions on 17 January. Some of the passengers were also not wearing life jackets. Appearing at Canterbury Crown Court on Tuesday, he pleaded guilty to breaking the new law, which came into force in January, and will be sentenced on 10 June. [BBC]
A chance to watch the Lyrid meteor shower
The Lyrid meteor shower runs from 16-25 April each year, but typically peaks around 22 `spril (today) with around 10-20 meteors per hour. The best time to watch tends to be in the early hours of the morning, between 2am and 4am. It’s better to be under dark, clear skies, so try to get away from city lights. You don’t need any special equipment to watch the Lyrids, as binoculars or telescopes can limit your field of view. [ITV]
Financial news
On Wednesday, Oil was trading higher at $98.47. The pound is trading at $1.35, €1.15, and ¥9.21.
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