‘Freedom passes’ could be given to people who sign up for frequent Covid tests

The plans will come into effect from next month

'Freedom passes' will be offered to people who sign up for frequent Covid-19 testing from December onwards, government officials have confirmed. The passes will allow members of the public to be exempt from certain guidelines currently in place, providing they agree to be regularly tested for the virus. The plans are part of the government's overall strategy as England prepares to exit national lockdown on December 2. Earlier this week, it was confirmed that a number of areas of the economy, including pubs, gyms and non-essential shops, would reopen at the end of lockdown, though some will still be required to operate under certain rules such as the Rule of Six in bars and outdoor areas. The 'freedom pass' is expected to be offered initially to people working in institutions such as schools, hospitals and universities, and will give exemptions from a number of current frameworks, including having to isolate after coming into contact with someone carrying the virus, providing their test results continue to come back negative. They will not, however, be exempt from mandatory mask wearing. The measures are reportedly going to be implemented by the end of the year in selected areas, before being offered nationwide in 2021.