“With Crippling Staff Shortages, Speed Is Of The Essence” - CBI President Outlines Solution To Self Isolation Situation

Ahead of tomorrow’s (Monday 19 July) reopening, the CBI President has urged immediate changes to the current self-isolation policy as part of measures needed to create confidence and secure the economic recovery.

Lord Bilimoria reiterated his call for the government not to wait until 16 August, but immediately allow double-jabbed individuals not to self-isolate for 10 days, and create a route out of isolation for people not yet fully vaccinated (see notes to editors).

He has also called for clarity around the availability of free lateral flow tests for employees and citizens, and clearer communications from government around future country categorisation changes to help support the international travel sector, together with ramping up efforts for 100% full adult vaccination.

CBI President, Lord Karan Bilimoria, said: “With restrictions being lifted and cases rapidly increasing, we urgently need a surefooted approach from government, creating confidence to secure the recovery.

“This starts by immediately ending the self-isolation period of ten days for people who are double-jabbed and providing a route out of isolation for those not yet fully vaccinated through daily lateral flow tests (see notes to editors). Against the backdrop of crippling staff shortages, speed is of the essence.

“Building and maintaining confidence is key to securing the economic recovery. Business and government will continue working together, helping people and businesses live safely and successfully with the virus.

“Mask wearing in enclosed spaces, especially transport, will help create confidence for both staff and customers, as will clarity around the future availability of free testing for employees.”