Good evening, So, would you be happy to show proof you had your Covid vaccination in order to get a pint of beer? The Prime Minister has hinted that vaccine passports (VPs) might be used in leisure settings like pubs and nightclubs, although not until everyone has had the chance to be vaccinated. There are many people in this country who have fought hard against identity cards or any kind, saying that the Government could not protect our data, leaving it wide open to abuse and there is an argument which says ID cards (or vaccine passports in this case) would fundamentally change the relationship between the state and its citizens - it is simply not the kind of thing we do in Britain. But, Britain and the world have changed in the past 12 months and it is almost certain that if we want to go abroad, we will need to provide proof of a negative test and a Covid jab. While those who own pubs are fighting against the prospect of forcing folks to produce a VP to get in, more than half of the public are thought to be in favour. It will be interesting to watch this debate develop. Until next time, take care, Gillian Parkinson Editor Contact me at [email protected] We currently have a spring offer for our subscriptions, with 50% off for six months. I would like to ask if those of you who do not yet subscribe to www.lep.co.uk or www.blackpoolgazette.co.uk would consider taking out a digital subscription. By doing so, you are supporting local, community journalism and helping to ensure that it survives and thrives. A subscription gives you unlimited access to the site, for all the news and sport you need - and more, including our newly-launched Puzzles section. You can subscribe here: https://www.lep.co.uk/subscriptions for the Post and here https://www.blackpoolgazette.co.uk/subscriptions for the Gazette. And thank you. |