Brits could have to pay £100 for PCR tests in major shake-up

Free PCR tests provided by the Government could be scrapped as part of the Prime Minister’s plan to get the UK living with Covid.

The mooted changes could take place within a matter of weeks.

Tests within hospitals and high-risk locations are likely to remain free, as well as for vulnerable people, however Boris Johnson’s team is drawing up plans to charge those who want PCR tests.

With Boris Johnson wanting to scrap Covid rules by the end of the month, Brits could be stung by charges of over £100 if they want to get a test, whereas before people could get a PCR test for free after encountering someone with Covid.

The Sun had reported Government insiders had said PCR tests were ‘hugely expensive’ and now less needed than freely available and cheaper lateral flow tests.

It is also likely that Government could scrap advice for workers to take regular lateral flow tests.

However, SAGE scientists are warning against the move to scrap free testing, over worries people could find their anxiety increasing, especially with vulnerable people.