Prime Minister Boris Johnson has confirmed that Plan B measures including the use of ‘vaccine passports’ will be scrapped in England next week.
Johnson said in a statement that work from home guidance and mandatory wearing of face masks would also go when the restrictions are lifted, and the country reverts to Plan A.
Hospitality trade bodies have welcomed the announcement but have warned the government not to underestimate the severity these measures have had on trade during the festive period and into the new year.
The Night Time Industries Association (NTIA), which represents some 1400 independent bars, clubs and live music venues across the UK and has long been stanchly against the use of mandatory vaccine passports, said the announcement means businesses are finally able to plan for the future.
The British Beer & Pub Association has echoed NTIA’s comments, however, both trade bodies have warned that businesses will need further financial support.
“Experts believe it will take several years for the hospitality and nit time economy sectors to recover, but it is important that the government don’t simply assume the sector will be dine because restrictions have been eased. More support will be needed,” said Michael Kill, CEO of the NTIA.
