Minister insists govt 'absolutely aiming' to axe PCR testing in time for half-term

He said it was "absolutely the aim" to move to cheaper lateral flow tests by the end of next month.

"We’ve got to get the systems in place because we want to move to lateral flow tests to make it easier and cheaper for people to be able to enjoy those holidays at half-term," he told Sky News.

His comments come after transport secretary Grant Shapps said relaxed testing rules "may be" in place in time for the school holidays, but also indicated lateral flow test capacity is preventing confirmation of the date.

"We know that people want to get away, but we also want to encourage business travel as well because that’s an investment in the UK, it’s an investment in jobs and creating opportunities for people," Scully added.