Is the EU holding up Britain’s coronavirus response? UK is poised to ban ALL people who’ve been to China – but government insiders say it will be ‘pointless’ if Brussels does not follow suit as global death toll hits 493

The European Union may be delaying the UK’s response to the coronavirus outbreak after it stalled over a decision to ban all direct flights from China and turn away foreign nationals who have been to the disease-stricken country within the last 14 days.   Scores of passengers fleeing the coronavirus-hit country have been pouring into Britain every day without being properly screened or tested for the virus, prompting calls for a blanket travel ban similar to that imposed by the US, Australia and New Zealand. But the UK is still thought to be bound to EU immigration laws and obligated to fall in line with any decisions on travel restrictions made by the bloc, despite having technically left on January 31.  Health Secretary Matt Hancock is currently chairing a Cobra meeting where senior ministers are thought to be thrashing out plans on the UK’s next response to the outbreak, which could include imposing the ban for all travellers from China.   But Government sources suggested it would be pointless if Brussels does not follow suit as passengers could still enter Britain indirectly via another EU state due to freedom of movement rules.  ‘What is the point in one of you banning flights if none of the others are… Read full this story

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