A BOLTON MP has questioned ministers on how long vaccine passports will be a factor.

The Bolton News reported yesterday that Bolton West MP Chris Green 'was likely' to vote against the controversial measure.

And in a House of Commons debate on the issue, he voiced concerns on the longevity of the proposed system, to be introduced at the end of the month.

Mr Green said: "Would he confirm that the duration of these passports, whether they are passed by the Government or whether it is done by a vote, will only last as long as it is considered the United Kingdom is in a pandemic state not an endemic state in terms of the disease?"

Vaccines minister Nadhim Zahawi said there was "great difficulty" in working out when Covid had become endemic, and added: "We have entered a period of equilibrium now with the virus because of the success of the vaccination programme."

He added: "But this Government certainly does not see this as a long-term power grab to restrict people's liberties."

Mr Zahawi said plans would be set out soon on how long the passports will be in force.