New travel requirements are encouraging, says UKHospitality chief

UKHospitality has labelled the government’s new international travel requirements as “encouraging”, with arrivals into the UK now required to to present a negative Covid-19 test taken up to 72 hours prior to departure for entry. 

In a statement, UKHospitality chief Kate Nicholls said that the decision which was announced on 8 January will “boost confidence as well as ensuring that safety remains a priority”.

As part of the new rules to prohibit the spread of Covid-19 passengers will be subject to an immediate fine of £500 if they fail to comply with the new regulations on pre-departure testing. 

Nicholls, who has previously criticised the government’s actions during the pandemic, said “common international standards for pre-departure testing around the world are vital”, adding that it is “encouraging to see the government addressing the issue and looking to restore confidence among the public”.

She said: “Sections of the hospitality sector draw a substantial amount of their business from international visitors, be they tourists or business travellers. Getting these visits back up and running safely and smoothly will be key to securing the future of the hospitality sector and therefore the whole economy.”