Strict new rules requiring travellers arriving in England to have a negative coronavirus test have been delayed “to give international arrivals time to prepare”.
Originally, anyone arriving in England, from 4am tomorrow was going to have to show proof they have had a negative coronavirus test up to 72 hours before leaving the country of departure.
Transport Secretary Grant Shapps last week announced the new rule would be applicable to passengers arriving in England by boat, train or plane and would include UK nationals arriving home from holiday.
In an announcement on Twitter Mr Shapps has said the restrictions have been moved to the same time on Monday.
On Twitter, Mr Shapps said: To give international arrivals time to prepare passengers will be required to provide proof of a negative Covid-19 test before departure to England from MONDAY 18 JANUARY at 4am.”
UPDATE: To give international arrivals time to prepare ⏱️ passengers will be required to provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test before departure to England from MONDAY 18 JANUARY at 4am 📅
— Rt Hon Grant Shapps MP (@grantshapps) January 13, 2021
Travellers will need to present proof of a negative test result to their carrier before boarding and again, if asked by the UK Border Force who will conduct spot checks on arrivals.
New arrivals who flout the rules will face a minimum £500 fine, while the operator who transported them will also be fined.
Passengers will still have to quarantine for 10 days regardless of their test results.
