Competition watchdog asked to examine travel Covid 19 test market

Health Secretary has asked for advice on further steps to stamp out exploitative behaviour in the market

The competition watchdog has been asked by Sajid Javid to investigate the market for PCR travel tests.

The Health Secretary said he wanted to ensure consumers did not face “unnecessarily high costs”.

Mr Javid acknowledged that the cost of the tests can act as a barrier to travel, particularly for families.

In a letter to CMA chief executive Andrea Coscelli, Mr Javid said: “We have all experienced enormous disruption to our lives over this pandemic, but it is not right if some families experience yet further disruption unnecessarily because of potentially unfair practices in the market for private travel tests.

“It is important that the sensible measures we have introduced at the borders are fair and transparent and don’t involve unnecessary costs or low quality provision to people who have made so many sacrifices during this pandemic.”

Published: 09/08/2021 by Radio NewsHub