Free Covid testing could be scrapped

Friday, 11 Oct, 2021 0

The government’s latest cost-cutting measures could see the end of free Covid testing-for most people.

Discussions are reportedly taking place to consider scrapping free mass testing.

Under proposals, free lateral flow tests will only be applicable for care homes, hospitals and schools, according to the Telegraph.

It is no longer ‘sustainable or necessary given high vaccination levels’ a government source said while it is costing the Treasury billions.

However some experts believe now is not the right time with daily cases still topping 30,000.

Public Health England reported 34,950 new cases in the UK on Friday.

The infection rate is more than five times higher than France or Germany which are also scrapping free tests.

The proposal hopes to save the taxpayer billions.

"We now need to decide what the parameters should be that reasonably qualify access to free testing," a government official said.

It comes as the removal of 47 countries from the red travel list took effect today.

These include South Africa, Brazil, Thailand and Mexico

TravelMole Editorial Team

Editor for TravelMole North America and Asia pacific regions. Ray is a highly experienced (15+ years) skilled journalist and editor predominantly in travel, hospitality and lifestyle working with a huge number of major market-leading brands. He has also cover in-depth news, interviews and features in general business, finance, tech and geopolitical issues for a select few major news outlets and publishers.

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