Travel testing scrapped by Boris Johnson – finally ‘setting Britain free’ – full details

However, all passengers will still need to fill out a passenger locator form before travelling to the UK.

Mr Shapps said: “That means that after months of pre-departure testing, post-arrival testing, self-isolation, additional expense, all that fully vaccinated people will now have to do, when they travel to the UK, is to verify their status via a passenger locator form.”

Britons may still need to take a test before travelling to a foreign country and are advised to check the destination’s current rules before visiting.

The travel industry is welcoming the news, which will make travel easier for fully vaccinated holidaymakers.

Mark Tanzer, Chief Executive of ABTA – The Travel Association said: “Today’s announcement is a huge leap forwards in getting travel back to normal in England, in particular the removal of Day 2 tests for those who are double vaccinated. 

“As many families look to go abroad over the February half term, these changes will make the process of going on holiday cheaper and easier and will be a big boost for the industry’s recovery.

“Consistency across the UK is really important so we now need the Governments in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland to adopt the same approach.

“It’s good to see the Government also respond to our calls to simplify the passenger locator form and look to end managed quarantine – which have also been a big deterrent to international travel.

A Virgin Atlantic spokesperson said: “Britain is now open for business and it’s vital that the aviation industry is allowed to lead the way in boosting prospects for economic recovery. The removal of all testing for vaccinated passengers is the final step in moving towards frictionless air travel, allowing passengers to reconnect with loved ones and business colleagues.