England's seaside towns, like Southport, are microcosms of the country at large, where the magnificent infrastructure has been neglected to the point of decay and we barbarians live amongst its ruins, says Joanna Gray.
Analysis shows that, in England alone, rules on international travel have changed 50 times since the first lockdown – and that’s before the rules change again next week!
The Government is believed to be considering moving both Spain and Greece onto the "Amber Plus" List alongside France, a decision that could ruin the holiday plans of millions of Brits.
The domestic holiday industry was relying on this crucial summer season to make up for losses from the past year. But hotels, theatres and cafes are being forced to close due to staff shortages caused by the "pingdemic".
British holidaymakers have complained of missing return flights because of long delays by a Government-approved Covid test provider. Government departments have attempted to pass the buck for resolving the matter.
As if the Government's travel "green list" wasn't limited enough, Portugal may not lift its ban on European tourists until at least May 30th – two weeks after travel restrictions are eased in Britain.
The Foreign Office could refuse to sanction travel to "green list" countries since its travel advice is published independently of the Government's "traffic light" system, throwing doubt on holidays abroad this summer.
Government sources fear that an increase in Covid cases on the Continent could prevent Brits from holidaying abroad this summer, and could even cause a "new wave" of infections in Britain.
P&O Cruises will restart holidays around the British coast this year, but only for Brits who have been fully vaccinated against Covid. Those who can attend will be required to wear masks and to follow social distancing.
