WTTC statement expresses concern over the newly launched Test to Release system
Gloria Guevara, WTTC President & CEO, said: “Protecting public health is paramount and while WTTC welcomed the Test to Release scheme, it has created confusion and appears to be hindering rather than helping travellers, so we question whether – as it stands – it is fit for purpose.
“Holidaymakers must have easy access to the list of private testing firms and be certain that they will actually get their results in time. Travellers need clear and concise information so they fully understand the process they need to follow in order to take themselves out of quarantine.
“All of this information should be available via the NHS app or other clear mechanisms, otherwise it is just adding to the confusion and travel will stall before it restarts.
“Tests need to be quick, more affordable and accessible, and should also be available through the NHS, not just through expensive third-party suppliers. Testing travellers is the solution to restarting international travel while avoiding exporting the virus. It ensures only infected people are isolated and will enable mobility in a responsible way.
“Other countries have shown it can be done by introducing testing schemes which are both quick and cost-effective and have successfully kick-started travel to revive wilting economies.
“Safe and effective test and trace measures will form part of the essential toolkit which allows the return of safe travels with ease and confidence across international borders.
“However, the current Test to Release scheme in place in England is already causing acute confusion among the public, and there is an urgent need to ensure that it works for the very people it’s meant to help.”
Download the full statement