Boris Johnson is under growing pressure to allow double-jabbed arrivals from “amber” list countries into England without having to quarantine to open up foreign holidays for Britons and boost domestic tourism.
Ministers are said to be considering the move from as early as July 19, when lockdown restrictions are set to end. Ditching quarantine for arrivals from “amber” countries would pave the way for tourists to return to London.
Adam Tyndall, programme director for connectivity at London First, said: “It’s crucial that the Government removes the need for quarantine for those who have been fully vaccinated. This is important not just for Brits wanting a well-deserved summer holiday, but also for businesses in the capital who are reliant on the spending power that foreign tourists bring.”
At present, travellers arriving from an amber list country, which includes Spain, France, the US and Italy, must isolate for up to 10 days on arrival. However, this is under review and Transport Secretary Grant Shapps is expected to make an announcement tomorrow or on Friday.
Instead of quarantine, travellers are expected to be required to take a test before they return to Britain and then a PCR test on the second day of return.
British Airways, Virgin Atlantic and Heathrow Airport are to start a trial involving checking the vaccine status of double-jabbed passengers on flights into Britain before they reach the border.
