UK business is retaining its ‘stiff upper lip’ in the face of a faltering economy. According to research from the Institute of Travel Management, who canvassed 175 different British businesses, UK companies are ploughing on with their Business Travel plans.

Most companies in the UK who responded to the survey said they would limit non-essential travel plans, but wouldn’t place a ban on business travel altogether. 20% of those canvassed said they had considered a total ban, but stated that even if they were to introduce the ban, it would only be a short-term solution.

30% of British businesses said that the energy prices and increased fuel costs had very little effect on their business travel policies.

Videoconferencing is being utilised by businesses however to stay in touch with partners and colleagues in other countries.

Colin Goldney works for Argate Consulting, he claimed that any businesses who did place a block on their business travel could find it difficult to pick up again once the economy recovers.

If companies look to technology over mandating travel bans, this presents different options for the future.

When the economy picks up, changes in behaviour due to increased exposure to videoconferencing could result in executives travelling far less than before.

The answer to the question of whether this is really likely to happen is the same as the answer to whether we are moving into recession.