Given the number of recent changes in relation to the borders quarantine policy, BEIS thought it would be helpful to provide an update on the current position.
The Department for Transport are now reviewing the list of travel corridors on a weekly basis, this is based on the latest scientific advice on infection rates in these countries and the measures the countries have in place.
Given the increased rates of infection across Europe, a number of travel corridors have been removed at short notice over the last few weeks, most notably Spain and France.
We understand that some workers who have travelled to these countries on holiday have then found themselves facing quarantine on their return, unfortunately they will need to complete the full quarantine and cannot use a sector exemption, even if their work is critical.
The sector exemptions are still in place for those travelling from overseas to conduct absolutely critical work, and includes those who have travelled abroad for work but then need to return to conduct critical work, but it does not cover those returning from holiday. We understand this may put some of your staff in a difficult position, but with rates rising across Europe and the rest of the world, the UK must put the public’s health first. Your staff must consider the potential need to quarantine when planning any international holidays.
We have also received questions around the use of testing on return to the UK to avoid quarantine. Public Health England recently published their analysis (attached) that shows testing on day 1 of arrival into the UK is only likely to detect 7% of cases, and is therefore not a viable alternative to quarantine.
However there is evidence to suggest that testing on day 8 of quarantine with a further 2 days of quarantine would result in a 96% detection rate. Government continues to look at these options but there are a number of challenges to overcome with any approach.
I’d also like to remind you that any travellers arriving into the UK from outside the Common Travel Area will need to complete a passenger locator form.
Click here to access Passenger Locator Form
This includes travel from countries that have an active travel corridor.
Your staff may face an on the spot fine if they fail to complete a form before their arrival in the UK.
We understand this policy will continue to present challenges to both your company and employees, however I hope you can understand that with infection rates increasing across Europe, we must continue to put the public’s health first.
