PCR testing market still a ‘scandal’

Monday, 08 Dec, 2021 3

Former chairman of the Competition and Markets Authority, Lord Tyrie has again weighed in on overpricing and poor service offered by Covid test providers.

Despite CMA warnings, it remains a ‘rip-off jungle’ Lord Tyrie told the BBC.

Overpricing and poor service is still ‘widespread.’

"It appears that some of the worst practices: misleading online advertisements; overpricing; unacceptably poor service among them, are still widespread."

Lord Tyrie criticised the government’s handling and the CMA in the summer over testing standards.

"It was a scandal waiting to happen and it is now happening and it needs very urgent action if we’re to have to have a reasonable chance of protecting thousands of consumers," he said.

"To allow this to continue over the peak Christmas period would be scandalous. Other countries seem to have done better – we’ve got to try harder".

A Department of Health and Social Care spokesperson said: "We’ve been clear that it is unacceptable for any private testing company to take advantage of holidaymakers."

The government has taken action to drive down the cost of tests for international travel, with the average price of a Day 2 test now under £45 with many available for £20".

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TravelMole Editorial Team

Editor for TravelMole North America and Asia pacific regions. Ray is a highly experienced (15+ years) skilled journalist and editor predominantly in travel, hospitality and lifestyle working with a huge number of major market-leading brands. He has also cover in-depth news, interviews and features in general business, finance, tech and geopolitical issues for a select few major news outlets and publishers.

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