On March 30th in the first of his cozy little chats CEO Brian Chesky attempted to explain to a quarter of a million hosts why he had just shafted us. Of the decision to offer guests full refunds without consulting hosts he said:
"Please know this decision was not a business decision, but based on protecting public health...... I believe we did the right thing in prioritizing health and safety."
My 2020 earnings
Aww bless.... There's hoist by your own petard if ever I saw it.
Having endured almost four months of Airbnb's sanctimonious waffle about Frontline Responders, The Superhost Relief Fund, the 25% that was really 12.5% etc I am delighted that Islington looks like the place that is finally going to effectively and comprehensively call them out. Richard Watts, Leader of the Council this afternoon tweeted his fury.
He and other councillors are furious and there is now the political will to say enough is enough. No doubt a sledge hammer will be used to crack the nut but I suspect we will now see the beginning of the end of the ninety day exemption and a move back to Airbnb only listing proprties in which the host is resident.
Once that happens here in Islington there won't be a single candidate in next year's Mayoral elections who will oppose it on a London wide basis. If London lobbies for it then I'm afraid dear readers in the North (and other places) it will happen.
And because of the way Airbnb recommended constructing the legislation in the first place it cannot be repealed here and not in Brighton, Bridlington and Blackpool.
