MPs will be be given a vote on plans for vaccine passports before they are given the green light, it’s been reported.
Michael Gove is said to have privately promised those MPs suspicious of vaccine checks that they will be given a chance to vote them down.
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As it stands, 40 Tories have already voiced their opposition to the plan and could threaten to vote against it in a Commons clash.
But that wouldn’t be enough to overturn the PM’S big majority unless others party members jump on the bandwagon.
And Tory rebels will also need the support of the opposition parties if they hope to get the scheme scrapped.
Clive Lewis, a Labour backbencher who opposes the passport proposal, said many of his colleagues would join the rebels.
“I imagine there is a calculation [in Labour HQ] that this is something for which there isn’t support across the party,” he told the Telegraph.
“It would also be an opportunity, if there is a large number of Tory rebels, to inflict a possible defeat on the Government which, especially with an 80 seat majority, is a rare opportunity.”
Mr Gove – heading the official review into the passport scheme – reportedly held a phone call with MPs last week after dozens voiced their concerns.
One MP said: “Michael made a very clear statement on the call with MPs that there would be debates and votes before anything like this came into force”.
Earlier, we reported how Boris has ditched plans to force customers to show a vaccine passport every time they go into a pub.
In a major boost for the hospitality trade, the PM will exempt bars and restaurants from new Covid safety rules.
Only those attending mass gatherings, such as festivals or major sports events, will be required to provide proof of a jab, test or natural immunity.
Boris’s change of heart came after an angry backlash from 72 MPs who branded the idea “divisive and discriminatory”.
But he will tomorrow announce his determination to press ahead with a “vaccine certification” system for larger venues from next month.
NHS chiefs are developing a new app members of the public will have to show to gain access to sports stadiums, theatres, festivals and nightclubs.
Those without a smartphone will get a paper certificate.
The system will be trialled at nine pilot events over the next few weeks, where experts will also explore how high-tech ventilation and Covid tests on entry are working.
