Rishi Sunak and Sajid Javid clash over future of free Covid testing as curbs end this week
CABINET big guns are at loggerheads over plans to scrap free Covid tests when curbs are lifted this week.
Boris Johnson will announce the end of all regulations which restrict public freedom and a move to “living with” the virus.
The plan for England is expected to include ending the advice on mask-wearing and rules for infected people to have to self-isolate.
But the final blueprint is being held up as Rishi Sunak and Sajid Javid clash over the future of the £10billion-a-year testing regime.
Chancellor Mr Sunak is keen to reduce the outlay and divert cash into other Government priorities, including the crucial levelling-up agenda.
But the Health Secretary is concerned about making tests available for vulnerable people and for surveillance of the spread of the bug.
A YouGov poll yesterday found 83 per cent of the public believe free lateral flow tests should continue to be available.
A Government source said: “It’s right to say we aren’t going to continue free testing at the present scale — it’s far too costly.
“Nobody is suggesting free testing should go on forever, but we have to draw the line somewhere and have yet to decide where that is.
"Live discussions are taking place over the weekend in the hope we can strike the right balance.”
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The PM will make an announcement today and is expected to repeal all the main Covid regulations.
His plan will include action to protect the old and vulnerable, which may involve an annual booster jab for patients thought to be at greater risk.
Mr Johnson said last night: “Covid will not suddenly disappear and we need to learn to live with this virus and continue to protect ourselves without restricting our freedoms.
"Thanks to our successful vaccination programme, we are in a position to set out our plan for living with Covid.”
