Thomas Cook passengers promised direct debit refunds by end of day

Direct debit refunds for passengers who booked with Thomas Cook before the company collapsed should be completed by the end of today.

150,000 holidaymakers were stranded abroad after the collapse of Peterborough-based holiday company and more than 1,000 jobs were lost in the city.

The Civil Aviation Authority says that all qualifying customers will receive a confirmation email. Other refund claims could take up to 60 days top process.

Meanwhile the Government has already announced that it will reform the current system to enable airlines placed in special administration to continue flying to bring every passenger back to the UK faster and without disruption.

The Transport Secretary says being able to make use of existing assets and staff to get people home will help to cut repatriation costs.