Gibraltar’s chief minister Fabian Picardo has announced that people travelling from the UK to Gibraltar will not be required to take a PCR coronavirus test.
Speaking on British TV, he noted that Gibraltar had an open border with Spain and the rest of the European Union. As PCR tests were not required for those crossing the land frontier, he said, it would not be appropriate to require PCR tests for people travelling from the UK – a country with a higher rate of vaccination and lower COVID-19 incidence than much of Europe.
“When you’re coming to Gibraltar, you’re coming to a part of Britain and therefore you’re going to be very welcome here without the need for a PCR test.”
He also stressed that most of Gibraltar’s adult population were now vaccinated, thanks to the UK, and that this would provide additional peace of mind for UK travellers while also highlighting Gibraltar’s appeal as a safe and attractive “staycation” destination in the Mediterranean.
Gibraltar is expected to be on the UK’s “green corridor list”, which is due to be announced later this month.
Culture vs Covid Exhibition
Meanwhile, attending the opening of the Culture vs Covid exhibition this week, Picardo said, “Gibraltar is open for business and we’re ready to have some fun.”
On show at the John Mackintosh Hall until 21 May, the exhibition features and celebrates artistic and cultural works produced during the global pandemic and lockdowns.
Announcing details of the exhibition, the government said, “The arts have provided many with a lifeline during a challenging year where we have all faced difficult times. They have provided a focus, inspiration and motivation, and have also entertained, distracted and presented hope.
“The industry has greatly been affected by the implications of COVID-19 and the resulting restrictions. Nevertheless, the artistic community in Gibraltar rose to the challenge and continued to create. Some of the works on display reflect individuals’ personal experiences during their year, with some specifically on the theme of the virus.”
