Full closure of UK borders is being ‘considered’ - what we know so far

A full UK border closure is being “considered” by the UK government amid concerns about new variants of Covid-19 being imported from abroad.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson is reportedly facing pressure from some members of the cabinet to close the border completely, in an effort to protect against further mutant strains.

'Under review'

Earlier this week the government closed all of the UK travel corridors until at least 15 February, which allowed arrivals from an approved list of countries to enter the UK without having to quarantine.

Under new rules, people who arrive in the UK will now have to show proof of a negative Covid-19 test from up to 72 hours before their journey to be allowed entry.

However, the travel restrictions could be extended further and may see the UK’s borders close entirely to foreigners following concerns about new coronavirus variants being brought into the country from overseas.

Environment Secretary George Eustice has said that the action is being “considered”, but it is unclear if and when a full border shutdown could be introduced.

Mr Eustice told Sky News: “We always keep things under review and it’s been considered”.

"There is concern at the moment at the number of mutant strains that there are - different strains of this coronavirus are cropping up in other countries.

"There are concerns that there is a risk that one day there will be a strain that might be able to evade the vaccine. That's why last week the Prime Minister toughened up the current restrictions.