Responding to the Prime Minister’s announcement of the next step of the roadmap out of lockdown, Cllr James Jamieson, Chairman of the Local Government Association, said COVID-19 status certification is likely to bring significant implications for councils, particularly with regards to licensing.

He said: “It is encouraging that the ongoing reduction in COVID-19 case rates, hospital admissions and deaths means we can move forward to the next step of the roadmap out of lockdown. Councils continue to work closely with local businesses to help high streets reopen safely and successfully again from 12 April and, particularly in visitor hotspots, prepare for an increase in visitors.

“We urge government to work closely with local government on any proposals for COVID-19 status certification. They are likely to bring significant implications for councils, particularly with regards to licensing, enforcement and support to venues and businesses who would have to use them. Councils can therefore provide vital insight into how the scheme can work best in practice, consider equalities implications and links to vaccine confidence."

The Prime Minister confirmed the roadmap is on track and planned easements on 12 April can go ahead including outdoor pubs, shops, gyms and hairdressers.