A TORY minister has denied a report claiming company bosses and hedge fund managers flying into the UK could be exempt from quarantine rules to “promote global Britain”.
Under plans allegedly considered by Downing Street, an exception would be made for business people conducting high-value deals.
According to the Sunday Times, the softened measures would apply to senior bankers, hedge fund managers and executives.
As it stands, only a small number of people are allowed to skip the 14-day quarantine, including members of the armed forces, hauliers and people who commute weekly overseas.
Asked about the report, Northern Ireland Secretary Brandon Lewis confirmed the UK Government was considering shortening the self-isolation period for people in England but dismissed suggestions there would be an exemption for bankers and business people.
He told Sky News’ Sophy Ridge programme: “No … Any changes that are made will apply to everybody.
“Obviously there are things we have done through the virus like getting testing out to frontline NHS workers first which were scientifically-led.
“But when we look at things like that, if there are any changes of that type they will apply to everybody.”
Lewis revealed Downing Street officials were considering halving the self-isolation time for people in England who are instructed to quarantine after coming into contact with someone who has tested positive for Covid-19 .
Government sources acknowledged the move reflected concerns people were failing to respond when they were contacted by the system because of fears they could face a lengthy period of self-isolation.
He said: "We want to make sure we are moving with science and allow people to live and work within this virus as best as we can while always making sure we protect people's health and the NHS."
Why are you making commenting on The National only available to subscribers?
We know there are thousands of National readers who want to debate, argue and go back and forth in the comments section of our stories. We’ve got the most informed readers in Scotland, asking each other the big questions about the future of our country.
Unfortunately, though, these important debates are being spoiled by a vocal minority of trolls who aren’t really interested in the issues, try to derail the conversations, register under fake names, and post vile abuse.
So that’s why we’ve decided to make the ability to comment only available to our paying subscribers. That way, all the trolls who post abuse on our website will have to pay if they want to join the debate – and risk a permanent ban from the account that they subscribe with.
The conversation will go back to what it should be about – people who care passionately about the issues, but disagree constructively on what we should do about them. Let’s get that debate started!
Callum Baird, Editor of The National
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel