Boris Johnson’s ‘plan B’ measures for England have been approved by the Commons, despite the PM facing his biggest-ever rebellion since taking office.
The introduction of Covid passes for crowded venues was passed with 369 votes in favour and 126 against – a majority of 243. Some 96 Tory MPs are understood to have voted against the measure which means that, as of tomorrow, people will have to show proof of either at least two Covid vaccine doses or a negative test to enter venues with more than 500 people, such as nightclubs, stadiums, and theatres.
MPs also retrospectively approved the extension of mandatory face coverings for most indoor venues, by 441 to 41 votes. A change to self isolation rules – dropping the requirement to self-isolate and instead do daily Covid tests for fully vaccinated people who are contacts of a positive case – was passed without a vote.
It came after it was confirmed today that an additional 59,610 Covid cases were reported in the UK – the fifth highest daily total since the Covid pandemic began.
