Lib Dems in West Midlands sign letter opposing introduction of Covid-19 vaccine passports

Government chiefs said the "Covid-status certification" scheme would be tested at a series of events – including the FA Cup final – up until mid-May.

But the move has been met with criticism by a number of Lib Dems in the region who have signed a letter which calls it a step towards "authoritarianism".

The letter states: "We don't ask anyone to share their medical history to go to the supermarket. Singling out businesses on the high street, and in the night-time economy, to bring in expensive and unworkable checkpoints is deeply illiberal, and further threatens the viability of these businesses.

"The liberal society we seek to protect is based on treating everyone fairly, and not creating a two-tier approach to the public, which this measure would bring in.

"We will get through this, together. We’re almost there. But we won’t be helped by illiberal, government intrusion into our personal lives, with yet another ill-thought out, rash decision, with hints of authoritarianism."

It has been signed by West Midlands Mayor candidate Jenny Wilkinson.

She is vying to be elected on May 6 and is up against Conservative Andy Street, Labour's Liam Byrne, the Green Party's Steve Caudwell and independents Tim Weller and Colin Rankine.

Councillor Jon Hunt, candidate for the region's Police and Crime Commissioner, has also signed the letter.

Other candidates for the role include Conservative Jay Singh-Sohal, Labour's Simon Foster, Birmingham pub bombings campaigner Julie Hambleton and Bishop Dr Desmond Jaddoo for the recently-formed We Matter Party.

Other signatures on the letter include former Sandwell mayor Sadie Smith, former MEP Phil Bennion, along with campaigners and election candidates in Dudley and Stone.