CBI response to PM Covid update

John Foster, CBI Director of Policy, said:

“Knowing the Covid roadmap is on track can help create the economic momentum the country needs as the second phase of reopening begins.

“The retail and outdoor hospitality sectors can now gear up with certainty and confidence for a safe start.

“Covid status certificates have a part to play in some of the more challenging parts of the economy, like large scale events. The government has listened to industry concerns and is seeking to deploy them in a targeted way. These first trials will be watched with great interest. Any introduction ought to come with rigorous guidance and enforcement to help firms navigate ethical, legal and practical implementation challenges.

“Restarting international travel is vital for all parts of the economy, including tourism. The new traffic light system is a simple, risk-based approach that business has been calling for. It should be implemented alongside straightforward border arrangements, advance testing where necessary, and high-quality communications about any future changes to a country’s status.

“Taken together, this new package of measures – along with the success of the vaccine roll-out – gives the UK a real chance of leading the world in a safe and sustainable re-opening of the economy, hopefully paving the way for a strong recovery.”

On the expansion of free rapid testing, John Foster, CBI Director of Policy, said:

“Alongside the vaccine rollout, mass, rapid testing remains an essential tool in tackling the virus. So expanding access to testing is a good step forward. Knowing how it fits in with existing workplace testing programmes will be crucial for avoiding cost and complexity for firms. And the Government should continue dialogue with business about longer term workplace testing beyond June, providing confidence to employees and customers alike.”