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<p>In responding to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Government is working to a scientifically-led,
step-by-step action plan, focusing on taking the right measures at the right time.</p><p>Targeted
screening measures were carried out at UK airports for inbound passengers during the
containment phase of the pandemic when the aim was to prevent the virus coming in
to the UK.</p><p>Whilst there is community transmission within the UK, the role played
by imported cases is less significant and so our focus in the current delay phase
has not been on screening measures at the border. Additionally, it is vital that flights
are still able to land in the UK in order to allow Britons who have been stranded
abroad as a result of the pandemic to return home, and to allow key supplies to continue
moving into and around the UK.</p><p>Airlines and airports have already implemented
additional measures in response to COVID-19 in line with advice from PHE, SAGE and
the Chief Medical Officer. Airports are displaying posters and digital signage relaying
Government information about COVID-19. Passengers arriving into UK airports are being
given a leaflet with information about the measures in place in the UK, and announcements
are made on aircraft an hour before landing.</p><p>As you would expect our approach
is being kept under review as the pandemic develops. This may mean that measures and
procedures change as we control the spread of, and understand more about, the virus.
Any changes to our approach will be led by advice from SAGE and the Chief Medical
Officer. Protecting the health of the UK public will always come first.</p><p> </p><p>
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