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Liverpool Echo
Liverpool Echo
World
Ian Croll

Tougher restrictions for UK holidaymakers in Malta despite green list inclusion

Malta has announced new tougher restrictions for UK holidaymakers after it was included on the UK’s green list.

The Mediterranean island is one of 14 countries added to England's green travel list meaning tourists heading there after 4am on June 30 will not have to quarantine on their return.

However, new restrictions put in place by the Maltese government mean British holidaymakers who are not fully vaccinated against coronavirus will have to quarantine when they arrive.

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Malta updated its restrictions because of fears over the spread of new Covid variants in the UK and a reported rise in infections.

Public Health England said there had been 35,204 more cases of the Delta variant since last week to reach a total of 111,157 – a 46% increase.

The NHS COVID pass, which can be used by UK holidaymakers to show their vaccine status, is only available to people who have had two doses of a coronavirus vaccine.

It has not yet been confirmed whether the NHS app will be accepted in Malta.

The popular holiday destination was moved to the green list along with Spain's Balearic Islands, Madeira and some Caribbean islands. However, all of the additions except Malta were also put on a watchlist, which means they are at risk of returning to the amber list.

Meanwhile, the Portuguese island of Madeira has welcomed its inclusion on the green list.

Eduardo Jesus, Regional Secretary for Tourism and Culture, said: "The UK government's decision is aligned with Madeira's reality, we really deserve to be added to the green list.

"It's the recognition for all the efforts made to become a safe destination. The Madeira Government is committed to keep up the level of security, whilst guarantee the best experience for those who visit us."

Testing is no longer required for UK holidaymakers who have been fully-vaccinated or recovered from Covid-19.

Madeira was included on the first green list on May 17, but it was downgraded to amber just days after when concerns were raised about rising infections.

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