Social media users have been pouring scorn on the Government's tweeted announcement of a new Business Traveller exemption. From 4am on Sat 5th December high-value business travellers will no longer need to self-isolate when returning to England from a country that isn’t a travel corridor, “allowing more travel to support the economy and jobs.” Transport Secretary Grant Shapps clarified that this includes “certain performing arts professionals, TV production staff, journalists and recently signed elite sportspersons”. Full details are yet to be released, and will be published on the Government website.
Playwright Dan Rebellato tweeted “Who needs some stupid vaccine when you can simply become immune to COVID by intoning the magic words “I am a high-value business traveller”? This theme has been echoed by many, accusing the Government of ‘Policy made by the wealthy for the benefit of the wealthy’.
Less controversial has been the announcement that the 5% VAT rate on admission charges to cultural venues, which was due to end on 12th January 2020, has been extend to 31st March.