Hopes are growing that the red list is about to be dramatically cut back with the latest review due by the end of this week.

Elsewhere, prime minister Boris Johnson is facing a backlash from business over his determination not to increase migration to deal with the current labour shortage.

Here are the headlines the travel industry woke up to on Thursday (7 October)

Cabinet row over filmed tests for returning travellers 

Ministers are divided over plans to make holidaymakers film themselves taking Covid tests when they return to the UK. The proposal is backed by health secretary Sajid Javid but opposed by transport secretary Grant Shapps who considers it “too bureaucratic and costly”. (Daily Telegraph)

England’s Covid travel red list to be cut to a dozen countries

The government is expected to dramatically reduce the number of countries on England’s red list in this week’s update. Destinations such as Brazil, Mexico and South Africa are likely to move off the red list, which requires arrivals in England to quarantine in a government-organised hotel. (The Guardian)

Johnson hit by business backlash

Business leaders have warned that consumers could face higher prices if the government continues to restrict migration when there are serious labour shortages. The prime minister called for the UK to become a “high-wage, high-skill” economy in his speech to the Conservative party conference on Wednesday (6 October). (The Times)

Energy bills could rise by hundreds of pounds

Consumers could see their energy bills rise by hundreds of pounds next year due to rapidly rising gas prices. Market analysts warned that household bills could go up by £400 in spring 2022 when the new price cap takes effect. More energy firms are also expected to collapse as prices surge. (BBC News)

BA to rehire thousands of staff laid off during Covid

British Airways could rehire thousands of cabin crew who had to be laid off in 2020 as the Covid crisis forced the shutdown of most services. Union Unite said BA was looking to rehire around 3,000 cabin crew after cutting 10,000 jobs last year. (Financial Times)

Holiday boost as travel rules relaxed for 32 more countries

The Foreign Office has dropped advice against travel for Covid reasons to another 32 countries, including Fiji, Malaysia and Bangladesh. These destinations were not on the red list but lifting FCDO advice makes it easier for travellers to obtain insurance for their trips. (Daily Mail)