...As Portugal says ‘yes’ to tourists

BRITISH holidaymakers hoping to jet off to Portugal as soon as UK travel restrictions lift learned yesterday their trips were safe, after a period of uncertainty when the nation’s government decided to extend its “state of calamity” until at least May 30.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced on Tuesday that as of May 17 the “stay in the UK” restriction will lift, meaning people will be able to go to green list countries, which includes Portugal.

Initial guidance published on the Portuguese Government’s website on Thursday stated that ministers had approved a move to continue the current level of lockdown. But that was updated yesterday, meaning arrivals can begin into Portugal from Monday May 17

According to the BBC, Portuguese Cabinet office minister Mariana Vieira da Silva said in a briefing on Thursday she had “no information to give yet” when asked if restrictions on travel from the UK would soon be lifted.

“Work is going on and as soon as there is a decision it will be announced, but no decision was taken in this cabinet meeting,” she said.

But by lunchtime yesterday the confirmation came through that flights which are primed and ready to take off for Portuguese destinations would be able to land and British holidays were safe.

Ms Vieira da Silva said under current plans for the Champions League final, a series of restrictions to British fans would apply.

As well as the limit on ticket sales, fans will have to fly in on charter planes, arriving and leaving “on the same day”, the BBC said.