Test to release
Today the Transport Secretary announced a new ‘Test to Release’ strategy which will reduce the time of self-isolation period for passengers arriving into England from 15 December, by giving them the option to pay for and take a test after 5 days of self-isolation.
- We all understand how challenging the current quarantine rules which apply to international travel are for both those individuals isolating and the travel sector.
- That was why the government established the Global Travel Taskforce to examine how that time could be reduced; and from 15 December, passengers returning to England from countries not featured on the Government’s travel corridor list will have the option to take a test, after five days of self-isolation, with a negative test releasing them from the need to isolate. Those who opt in to the scheme will be able to book and pay for a Covid-19 test from a private provider on the Gov.uk list, which ensures NHS Test and Trace testing capacity is protected.
- This comes as new financial support is introduced for commercial airports across England and the ground handlers who support them with government grants of up to £8 million, protecting jobs and the local communities which surround them.
- By giving the choice to test on day five, this strategy will allow people to travel more freely, see loved ones and drive international business, as we continue to support the travel industry rebuild out of the pandemic.
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