Media reports in France suggest that the authorities will reopen United Kingdom (UK) links, including ferry and rail connections, to drivers who have tested negative to Covid-19 and to the country’s own nationals.
Ferry connections with France and railfreight services were stopped on Sunday as the spread of the new variant Covid virus raised concerns in continental Europe and other countries about the potential for its spread across Europe.
According to the latest reports, the French Government is expected to require negative tests for lorry drivers in order for them to be allowed to travel with accompanied freight. Unaccompanied freight remains unaffected.
According to a statement from the European Commission (EC) today, “Flight and train bans should be discontinued given the need to ensure essential travel and avoid supply chain disruptions.”
Following the end of the transition period on 31 December the UK will no longer be confined by EU rules and non-essential travel will be restricted.
However, the EC has sought to ensure the free movement of people and goods within the European Union.
“The Commission adopted a number of guidance documents on Green Lanes, including its Communication in October upgrading the concept of Green Lanes to cover not only road but also rail, waterborne freight and air cargo, to ensure that essential supply chains continue to function and to avoid any disruption of freight and logistics in the EU in the second wave of the pandemic,” said an EC statement.
According to the latest reports from the BBC, there are now up to 1,500 lorries waiting to board ferries and trains in the Kent region of southeast England.
Nick Savvides
Managing Editor
