UK to Stand Down all Remaining Covid Travel Restrictions

From Friday, all remaining Covid travel restrictions, including as the Passenger Locator Form and non-vaccinated arrivals testing, will be “stood down” for UK arrivals.

In a tweet on Monday afternoon, Transport Secretary Grant Shapps announced the move, claiming it will provide “more freedom” ahead of the Easter school vacations.

According to Shapps: “All remaining Covid travel measures, including the Passenger Locator Form and tests for all arrivals, will be stood down for travel to the UK from 4am on 18th March.

“These changes are possible due to our vaccine rollout and mean greater freedom in time for Easter.”

The language of Shapps’ tweet suggests that the measures might be reinstated if judged necessary in the future.

The administration has previously stated that if a new form of worry emerges, it will be prepared to take the required steps.

Sajid Javid, the health secretary, also tweeted on the elimination of tests and forms, saying: “This is thanks to our incredible vaccine programme which has seen over 8 in 10 adults across the UK boosted.”

Agents, operators, airlines, and trade associations applauded the announcement, claiming it will boost Easter and summer bookings.

Chief CEO of Jet2.com and Jet2holidays, Steve Heapy, said: “Two years after the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic, today’s announcement marks international travel finally returning to normal.

“With Easter just around the corner and summer fast approaching, this announcement comes at the perfect time.”