In reaction to news that Edinburgh-based Flyglobespan has been placed into administration, Mark said:
 
"Coming just before Christmas, this is terrible news in particular for all the staff and their families.
 
"It will potentially be a massive problem to those who have booked their Christmas holidays with the airline or who are overseas now.
 
"The administrators must ensure that people are protected and helped as much as possible. This includes of course any staff who need help to get home."
 
The administrators have said the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) will be responsible for the repatriation of about 1,100 people booked on Globespan package holidays. The CAA is chartering nearly 60 special flights to bring people home.

A further 3,400 people at present overseas are not protected by Atol as they booked directly through the Flyglobespan website or call centre. They may, however, be protected under their own personal travel or credit card transaction insurance.

The Department of Transport has said they may qualify for a reduced rate repatriation fare and some other airlines are offering those passengers special "rescue" fares to allow them to return home where their routes overlap with those of Flyglobespan.

More information is available on the Directgov and Flyglobespan websites.

The administrators have set up a helpline which will be available between the hours of

9am to 8pm, Monday to Friday,
9am to 5.30pm, Saturday
9am to 5pm, Sunday.

The number to call is:
+44(0) 141 332 3233 or +44(0) 131 466 7607 or +44(0) 131 466 7612