LONDON (AP) – British authorities have decided not to require vaccine passports for entry to nightclubs and other crowded events in England, the British health secretary said on Sunday, reversing course amid opposition from some of the supporters of the Conservative government in Parliament.
Health Minister Sajid Javid said the government has put aside the idea of vaccine passports for now, but could reconsider the decision if COVID-19 cases increase exponentially again.
“We have looked at it correctly and while we should keep it in reserve as a potential option, I am pleased to say that we will not go ahead with plans for vaccine passports,” Javid told the BBC.
The change of origin came just days after both the government’s vaccine minister and culture secretary suggested that vaccine passports would still be needed, despite growing opposition from lawmakers.
In particular, members of the Conservative party governor have opposed these passports as an unacceptable burden on businesses and a violation of residents ’human rights.
The idea of requiring people to prove vaccination evidence or a recent negative test for COVID-19 has been awkward for many in Britain, where people do not usually carry identification documents.
Other European countries use similar documents that show the vaccination status of people as a way to reopen society, although the rules vary widely. Each of the 16 German states has slightly different rules on what is required, but in general, people must present a negative test, a vaccine, or a certificate of recovery before they are allowed to participate in covered dinners, drinks, or dances. .
Passes are mandatory in France when frequenting bars, cafes, restaurants, museums and other places where the public gathers and for long-distance travel by bus, train and plane. In Italy, where nightclubs have not reopened since the beginning of the pandemic, the so-called Green Passs must eat indoors, attend a concert or for national trips by train, bus, plane or ferry. , although local transportation is exempt.
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