UK Ministers continue to consider possibilities of vaccine passports for pubs and restaurants

 

Last night ministers in the UK refused to rule out the possibilities of vaccine passports for pubs, clubs and restaurants but denied there would be a firebreak lockdown in October. The UK Prime Minister’s office is waiting to unveil contingency plans next week for keeping the economy open in winter if there is a surge in COVID-19 cases.

The latest measures will likely extend the controversial COVID powers and will also bring forth plans for Brits to show that they are completely vaccinated to enter nightclubs, stadiums or other large venues from the end of the month. Vaccines Minister Nadhim Zahawi said that places that remained open during lockdowns would not have to ask visitors for proof they have had both shots.

So supermarkets, public buildings and other services such as GP surgeries would not ask for passports. Mr Zahawi said it pained him to curb freedoms in such a draconian way, but he would rather “take arrows” in the commons than have to shut nightclubs. Health Secretary Sajid Javid also denied claims that there could be a firebreak lockdown tacked on to the October half-term and mentioned that no thoughts about such a plan have been considered so far. He added that advice on booster jabs and vaccines for teens will come this week.

Tags: Coronavirus, Covid-19, UK, UK Tourism