On my way to South Africa via Virgin Airways, I was assisted by a very nice lady with my luggage. Her role was to help passengers who faced walking difficulties. As we chatted she told me she had done the job for ten years but was soon to be made redundant. When I asked why, she said that an EU Directive had decreed that airlines were no longer allowed to provide assistance for passengers with difficulties.
The EU Directive meant that only airport operators (e.g. BAA) would be allowed to organise assistance for passengers. Apparently this had come about because a couple of years ago, a disabled passenger had sued Ryanair for charging for wheelchair assistance. So instead of dealing with one problem, the EU passed an all-encompassing directive.
If anything symbolises the heavy handed nature of the EU, this is it. Now thanks to the EU, passengers will have to rely on the competence of BAA - which from experience will fill anyone with trepidation. Interestingly, my soon-to-be-redundant helper maintained a wonderful cheery disposition despite knowing she was to lose her job soon. She added that Mr Branson had had no idea about the EU Directive and had been shocked!
