Calls for clarity from Welsh Government over Covid passes

The Federation of Small Businesses in Wales has called for greater clarity over Welsh Government plans to introduce Covid passes.

The measure will come into force from October 11.

Everyone aged 18 and above will need to show an NHS Covid Pass to get into the following venues and events:

• Indoor, non-seated events for more than 500 people, such as concerts or conventions;

• Outdoor non-seated events for more than 4,000 people;

• Any setting or event with more than 10,000 people in attendance.

Speaking following the First Minister’s latest Coronavirus Review Update, Ben Francis, FSB Wales Policy Chair said: “Businesses in every sector have been working hard over many months to implement measures to protect staff, customers and to keep their communities safe. We recognise that our members have been at the frontline of these efforts and that they have done everything asked of them during what has been a testing time.

“The proposed strengthening of messaging around existing measures such as wearing face coverings in enclosed public spaces and observing social distancing where possible, needs to come with a particular plea to individuals not only to observe those measures but to respect business owners and their staff as they seek to uphold these measures within their premises.

“We continue to hear stories of business owners and staff who face abuse for simply pointing out the legal obligations of individuals. Such abuse is unacceptable and should be condemned.”

On the issue of Covid passes, Mr Francis added: “There needs to be communication and clarity about the definition of nightclubs in particular and therefore the businesses which would fall within this definition.

“Businesses should not be left confused or at risk of inadvertently finding themselves in breach of this new requirement.

“We hope that in the run-up to the implementation of these measures, Welsh Government will engage closely with affected businesses and there will similarly need to be a strong messaging campaign by government to individuals of the need for the pass in order to minimise the risk of confrontation with business owners or employees of premises.

“We recognise that Welsh Government is having to make finely-balanced decisions and while some of these may not be welcome by all businesses, we accept that the intention is to allow businesses to continue to operate safely rather than implement measures which might have a more profound impact on businesses and the economy such as the lockdowns of the past 18 months.”