From today, France has extended the scope of its Covid-19 ‘health pass’ which is now compulsory to visit a café, board a plane, or travel on an inter-city train. People must upload proof of being double vaccinated to the French coronavirus smartphone app. Those without the app, or the 20 percent of Brits who do not have a smartphone, could be refused entry to hundreds of hotspots.

       The pass is issued to people fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and those who have recovered within the last six months.

       Those with PCR or antigen with a negative result within the last 48 hours can also obtain the pass.

       Fines for customers who refuse to show the 'health pass' start at €135 euros, rising to as much as €3,750 (￡3,200) or even six months in prison for repeat offences.

       READ MORE: French anti-vaxxers plot to get infected with Covid to avoid jab

       The controversial extension of the pass has already sparked protests of more than 200,000 people, but the French Government says it is determined to press ahead and make it a key part of the fight against the virus.

       However, just weeks after emerging from another lockdown, French businesses are concerned these rules will cause lasting damage and they are prepared to defy the Government’s demands.

       A survey by French trade magazine L'echommerces found that 40 per cent of bar and restaurant owners will ignore the rules entirely.

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