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WTTC, UKinbound cheer scrapping of pre-departure tests
The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) along with UKinbound applauded the government’s decision to remove pre-departure tests for travellers and replace Day 2 PCR testing with antigen tests.
Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, said: "The removal of pre-departure tests and replacing Day 2 PCRs will significantly boost the UK travel and tourism sector and help both it and the whole UK economy recover much faster."
"The testing measures never actually stopped infections coming in and were a blunt policy which only damaged the sector."
Joss Croft, UKinbound CEO, said: "The industry will be very pleased to see the removal of onerous pre-departure testing, and the replacement of the day 2 PCR test with a lateral flow test."
"However, this is not job done. January to March is a key booking period for inbound travel and if we are to ensure a successful revival, then the government needs to provide a clear roadmap for the removal of all travel restrictions."
It is ‘the right decision and a positive step’ for a long overdue business travel recovery, said Andrew Crawley, Chief Commercial Officer, American Express Global Business Travel.
"Today’s announcement will help our industry recover, empower UK businesses to reach new markets and catalyse growth."
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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