'Unfair' - Derbyshire has its say on vaccine passports
Some are more than happy with the idea, while others have criticised it
Matthew Lodge
There are reports vaccine passports could be introduced (Image: Getty Images)
The news that vaccine passports could be introduced in England has left people split.
It was reported last week that trials for vaccine passports could be held as early as next month.
Theatres and stadiums are lined up to pilot the scheme, which has split opinion among MPs, businesses and the public.
It was reported the scheme could be extended to include pubs, restaurants, nightclubs and cinemas.
An updated version of the NHS Covid app will allow people to prove they've been vaccinated, something that will herald the beginning of the pilot schemes.
Derebyshire Live asked its readers for their opinions on vaccine passports, specifically whether they would agree to have one to go to the pub.
Many people were unhappy with the idea, with people saying it was unfair on younger people who have not yet been offered a jab and it effectively gets rid of the people's right to choose where or not to have the vaccine.
Peter Clay, who runs a bar, said: "A high percentage of my bar staff are under 40 so not scheduled for a vaccine.
"So how would customers feel if they were vaccinated and ok, yet the person who served them wasn't vaccinated? Defeats the object of the exercise don't you think?"
David East, who manages a pub, said he felt it would be hypocritical to introduce it.
He said: "I manage a pub, and I'd have to only let vaccinated customers in, when neither me or my staff have even been called for a vaccine yet. Seems hypocritical."
Dawn Bestwick said she felt this was a way for the Government to try and force people into getting the vaccine.
She said: "I have had my first vaccine but I do believe it's down to everyone's choice and should not be forced on anyone.
"The younger ones who like going to pubs, I can't help but think that by doing this they are trying to force vaccine on them, if they don't have it then no pub and that's wrong."
Col Hoyles disagreed with the idea despite already having the jab.
She said: "I'm all for the vaccine, I'm soon to have my 2nd but I'm 100% against any sort of 'passport' of any shape or form.
"Social distancing and hygiene in ALL places should carry on for a while longer yet though."
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However, others were more receptive to the idea, saying it would be needed to get back to normality.
Barry Eggleton said he thought it shouldn't necessarily be imposed by the Government, but should be up to businesses themselves.
He said: "Each pub/bar etc should consult with staff. If the general consensus is that those who work there would prefer customers to have been vaccinated, then I'd have no problem with some kind of 'passport'."
Domeneque Di Ciacca said it could work in the future, but it is too early to put it in place now.
She said: "After everyone has had the chance to get a vaccine I don't see this being an issue.
"That and people who are medically exempt getting something to show it. But until then it's not really fair."
Glynn Griffiths said he felt normality would not be back for a while and passports might help.
He said: "All the people that have died and families who could not be with their loved ones. And moaning about a bit of paper."
He added: "Things will never be the same for a long time . Plus we are very lucky to have vaccine the way its going in England, it's just going to take time.
"Passport - what's the problem?"
Meanwhile, Mike Sharratt said he was all in favour of it if it allowed things to return to normal.
He said:"If it means I can get back to the pub I would get it tattooed on me forehead."
Amarjit Singh agreed, saying: "It should be not just in pubs and it should be in Supermarkets and Airports everywhere mixing with other people as well."
Rod Wilson added: "Those that don't won't be able to travel abroad as you will find most countries will require a Vax passport.
"What have you got to be worried about? If I was still in the pub trade it would be no Vax passport no entry."