LANCASHIRE Central Euro-MP Mark Hendrick has spoken on the need to keep duty-free and tax-free shopping.

The system is due to be abolished within the European Union in June 1999 which will mean that anyone travelling between Britain and other EU countries will not be able to buy cheap goods at airports, for instance. More than 30 million people a year enjoy duty-free shopping in the UK alone and the business is worth over £1 billion to the British economy.

Airport authorities also say the move will mean higher air fares as these will no longer be subsidised by the duty-free sales. Speaking at Manchester Airport, Mr Hendrick said: "Duty and tax-free sales are vital for the local economy to secure jobs and prosperity in the area. They are also a big bonus for travellers."

Coun Michael Stringer, chairman of the board of Manchester Airport plc, said a study had found that the loss of the sales would cost the airport and the region as a whole 700 jobs.

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