(The Sun) – Brits could be given special ‘freedom passes’ to allow them to live a relatively normal life – if they have two negative Covid tests in a week. It’s been claimed the proposed plan could be rolled out in the New Year in a bid to reopen society as soon as possible.
The Telegraph reports that under the plan, people could be given special passes if they can prove they have been regularly tested. Those who have been given the all-clear would then be given an electronic document to show they have the freedom to roam. Boris Johnson is set to unveil the scheme tomorrow when he addresses the nation over his Covid Winter Plan.
The proposed plans will include the re-introduction of the three-tier system once England’s lockdown is lifted on December 2nd. A source said: “They will allow someone to wander down the streets, and if someone else asks why they are not wearing a mask, they can show the card, letter or an App.”
The source added the passes – which could even be a QR code – would allow people “to see their family, and normal social distancing rules will not apply“. The ambitious proposal is said to have the backing of former Health Secretary Jeremy Hunt. He has already said he backs “offering people who comply with testing and isolation requirements a ‘freedom pass’ that removes the requirement to follow lockdown regulations”.
And he has been urging the Government to give people a nudge to be tested by allowing them “to go out, shop and go to work” if given the all-clear. However, for the scheme to be a success, millions of tests will have to take place every day. The scheme is understood to be one of many rolled out by Boris in the Commons tomorrow to curb the spread of the virus. FULL REPORT
