Following reports of a new mutated coronavirus in the UK, France closed its borders. UK government announced that there is a backlog of about 4,000 trucks in Kent waiting to cross into France. After the two-day closure, the country reopened and train and air traffic to France began to resume for those who tested negative for Covid-19. The closure had stranded many European truck drivers in England, while also threatening to lead to shortages of fresh food in the U.K. within days.

While about 150 cars crossed overnight, Eurotunnel said that no freight had crossed the Channel on its services by 9.30 am in the UK. Some flights between British airports and France were due to depart on Wednesday.

Those economic concerns exceeded health ones, as the border was reopened despite the lack of any arrangement that would allow for quick and reliable testing of drivers for the disease. The test must not be older than 72 hours until at least January.

“It is now vital that Covid-19 testing procedures be stood up fast to ensure drivers can be processed and get home for Christmas safely,” said policy director at business group Logistics UK.

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