Flyers to England require negative Covid-19 report starting January 18

A pre-departure Covid-19 test rule for passengers entering England will come into effect from Monday instead of this week, transport minister Grant Shapps said in a tweet late on Wednesday.

"Passengers will be required to provide proof of a negative Covid-19 test before departure to England from Monday 18 January At 4am," Shapps wrote in his tweet.

"Passengers must remember to complete a Passenger Locator Form before arriving back into England," Shapps said, adding that passengers would face a fine of 500 pounds ($682.30) if they do not provide proof of negative test.