I’m sure you’re all aware of the weekly FCDO (Foreign Commonwealth & Development Office – and yes, they’ve had a rebrand from FCO it seems) watch I seem to be doing, but this snuck out today whilst I’ve been busy on other matters – and that is Scotland is to impose a self-isolation requirement when returning from Greece
This goes into effect on the 3rd of September.
The advice is as follows:
If you are returning to Scotland from Greece on or after 3 September, you will need to self-isolate on your return (unless you are exempt). Check the latest guidance from the Scottish Government, and separate guidance if returning to England, Wales or Northern Ireland.
If you’re returning to Wales from Zakynthos (Zante), you may be required to self isolate for 14 days, and request a coronavirus test once you arrive home. More information is available from the Welsh Government.
For those interested in the full guidance, head to https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/greece
Wait – different advice for different regions of the United Kingdom?
Whilst the UK Government in Westminster leads, the devolved administrations in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland can choose to impose additional restrictions. This is true of when Switzerland was added to the isolation list by Scotland a full week before the rest of the UK.
Will the rest of the United Kingdom follow?
We’ll find out later on Thursday (3rd September). It will depend on what risk posture the UK Government and FCDO decide to take.
But if you’re planning trips to Greece, make sure you have decent cancellation insurance or have the ability to make changes to your booking.
With the UK Government flipping and flopping so often on its travel advice, it’s akin for the UK putting “Closed to visitors” sign. Even Willie Walsh can be right (The Times, Paywall)…
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I travelled from Scotland to LGW on Tuesday afternoon and had a connection to Greece very early on Wednesday morning. Around 7:30pm I received the news of the likely imposition of quarantine should I continue so I cancelled my trip and returned home. I have other commitments that superseded the Greek trip and quarantine was not an option.
Can I just point out one issue with your piece which is very important though. Scotland is not a region of the United Kingdom, but a country within the Kingdom. I know this may not sound too important to you, but is likely to be to many Scots, and I assume to many Welsh and NI residents too.. Formed in 1707 as a union of nations.. Thanks.