Vaccine passports for pubs, clubs and restaurants haven’t been ruled out by No10

MINISTERS last night refused to rule out vaccine passports for pubs, clubs and restaurants — but denied there would be a firebreak lockdown in October.

No 10 is preparing to unveil contingency plans next week for keeping the economy open this winter if there is a Covid surge.

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Measures will extend the controversial Covid powers and bring forward plans for Brits to have to prove they are double jabbed to enter nightclubs, stadiums or other large venues from the end of the month.

Yesterday, vaccines minister Nadhim Zahawi would only say that places which had stayed open during lockdowns would not have to ask visitors for proof they have had both shots.

So supermarkets, public buildings and other services such as GP surgeries would not ask for passports.

Mr Zahawi said it pained him to curb freedoms in such a draconian way, but he would rather “take arrows” in the Commons than have to shut nightclubs.

Health Secretary Sajid Javid shot down claims there could be a firebreak lockdown tacked on to the October half-term, saying he “hasn’t even thought about it”.

Advice on booster jabs and vaccines for teens will come this week, Mr Javid said.

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It is likely that the rollout will start before the end of the month to prevent a winter Covid surge crisis.

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