The controversial COVID-19 passport scheme looks set to see the light of day in a matter of weeks if it can make it past the House of Commons. The passport as I understand it may be used as a device for the bearer to prove that they have either been vaccinated or recently tested negative for the virus. After the prospective document has been shown, the holder would then be subject to an on-the-spot test (as in existence at some places already, such as some airports).
Subject to numerous factors, then the government has a theoretical pathway sketched out to then allow various percentages of venue capacity to be filled by the public. So in practical terms, the Carabao Cup final against Manchester City at Wembley could become a test event.
It cannot be emphasized just how much of this is all up in the air at this stage and the likelihood of hostility towards this ‘passport’ is pretty much nailed on as The Mirror believes: “More than 70 Tory, Labour, and Lib Dem MPs have pledged to campaign against the “divisive and discriminatory use” of inoculation certificates to “deny individuals access to general services, businesses or jobs”.
The bottom line is that a maximum of 4,000 fans could watch the forthcoming League Cup final.
I take a view that the sooner this virus is treated like flu as was suggested by Chris Whitty, then the better for everyone. Already in a small town near me, numerous businesses have closed, including a high street bank, and I am aware of horrific personal debts now borne by businesses still waiting to reopen.