In another boost to our travel and tourism sectors, 47 countries and territories have been removed from the red list. Which means that, from 11 October, the red list will reduce to 7 countries and proof of vaccination will be recognised from 37 new countries and territories. Again, we're using our brilliant vaccines to open up more areas of society, and I know how vital it is that we open up international travel, which has taken an almighty hit over the last 18 months.
Eligible fully vaccinated passengers and eligible under 18s returning from countries and territories not on the red list, can do so with just a day 2 test.
Other passengers who are not fully vaccinated with an authorised vaccine returning from a non-red destination must still take a pre-departure test, a day 2 and 8 test and complete 10 days self-isolation (with the option of Test to Release on day 5).
The change to restrictions builds on the recent simplification of international travel rules, including the removal of pre-departure testing for eligible fully vaccinated travellers implemented earlier this week.
The Government's scientists will continue to engage with countries still on the red list and keep the evidence on variants of concern, especially Lambda and Mu, under close review in order to ensure the UK’s approach remains proportionate. The government will continue to maintain surveillance at the border through testing and genomic sequencing, so that we can respond rapidly if risks from any country increase.
I will continue engaging with Ministers in DfT and DHSC in the weeks and months ahead as our travel sector continues its recovery. I know constituents working in this sector continue to be worried about the impact the pandemic is continuing to have and, as I have done over the past 18 months, I am highlighting these concerns to my colleagues.