The government is exploring the idea of documentation that would allow travelers to show they have been vaccinated against coronavirus, the Foreign Office minister James Cleverly has stated.
Boris Johnson’s spokesperson had previously denied there were any plans for “vaccine passports” – but officials have now been asked to look at how individuals may comply with the requirements of some overseas governments for vaccination earlier than travel.
Talking on BBC Radio 4’s program earlier, Cleverly stated: “It’s often the case that the entry requirements for nations [include] vaccines and inoculations – that isn’t an uncommon practice. We will work with international partners to assist facilitate their border arrangements and immigration requirements.”
Greece is among the holiday hotspots that have urged they would be keen to welcome tourists if they’ll show they’ve been inoculated.
Government officials insisted the UK’s proposals were at an early stage and stressed that with strict lockdown guidelines still in place, traveling for a holiday was not currently allowed.
Requested about the idea on Friday, the prime minister’s spokesperson stated: “There are still no plans to roll out vaccine passports. At the moment, going on vacation is illegal – however, we will keep the situation under review.”
Arrivals from all nations to the UK at the moment have to quarantine for as much as 10 days, and many in the government expect these guidelines to have to remain in place for an extended period, to avoid a resurgence in the virus just as the vaccination program takes effect.
Ministers have repeatedly declined to say whether they believe holidays overseas are likely to be possible this summer. The health secretary, Matt Hancock, has instructed the public they’ll expect a “nice and free British summer”, disclosing that he has booked a stay in Cornwall.
Denmark and Sweden are already working on plans for some form of digital certification for vaccination, and discussions are underway about an EU-wide certification scheme.
