Should the Government launch ‘Covid passports’ to allow people into pubs?
The idea has been around for a while but now the Government has announced it will give an update on plans to introduce covid passports early next month. Sentinel readers told us what they think...
THE Government intends to make a decision on the controversial ‘covid immunity passport’ by June – but have now said an ‘initial update’ will be given next month.
It is considering whether to introduce the passport which will be a document showing whether individuals have ‘Covid immunity’.
This would be presented to pubs and restaurants to allow access.
Those behind the plan say it could help get the economy moving – but it has been criticised by some for ethical, privacy and legal reasons.
The chief executive of pub chain Greene King is the latest to criticise the proposals.
Nick Mackenzie told the PA news agency: “Barring entry to customers who haven’t had a vaccine would be totally unworkable, add significant cost and make pubs unviable at a time when the industry is planning to start to rebuild after all restrictions are removed from June 21, as detailed in the Government’s road map.”
Now Sentinel readers have had their say on the proposals.
Kaiden Chase said: “Because of the current economic crisis we have found ourselves in, it could be even more damaging to businesses who have to decide between the vaccinated and non-vaccinated
“People will remember those who chose to alienate them now if things ever did go back to normal.
“These pubs would never recover fully because of their decision.
“Some may also be forced to close because of it
“Businesses forced to close due to the Government’s policies are going to need the ability to make as much money as possible to help recover
from losses and alienating people is not the way to achieve that.”
Paul Jones said: “It’s insulting.
“It’s safe enough to go to work throughout this whole thing but now you need to have the vaccine just to go to the pub. Take your Covid passport and shove it.”
Ann Bailey added: “They should have them for travel as you need injections to go to some countries anyway, but not for pubs.”
But Andy Smith said: “They should bring out covid passports. It will show just who’s willing to battle any virus or illness floating around.”
Rose Thursfield said: “I think it’s a good idea but what about people who want to but can’t due to medical problems?”
Susan Walker added: “I thought you could still get Covid, even if you’ve had the jab, so what’s the point, or am I missing something?”