In a video posted on Twitter, Grant Shapps said the latest measures – which include a new “test and release” quarantine regime – allowed the government “to bolster international travel now while keeping the public safe”.

The new rules apply from 15 December.

“This reduction of self-isolation by up to two-thirds will help give people confidence to book international trips, knowing you can return to England and self-isolate for a shorter period of time once you have that negative test,” Shapps claimed.

He said this would boost international business and allow people in general “to travel more freely”.

“By giving people the choice to test on day five, we are also supporting the travel industry as it continues to rebuild,” he said.

Shapps also outlined the help he was giving airports with business rates.

“We anticipate this will entirely wipe out business rates for 21 out of 24 airports that are part of the scheme,” he said.

He added this help was added to that of the job retention scheme, loans and tax deferrals.

These measures, combined with testing, would “start to assist the sector to take off once again”, he said.

https://twitter.com/grantshapps/status/1331132451280859137