Day 2 PCR really needed for 7 year old? (Travel)

[StuckInARug]

We're travelling to an amber list country in 2 weeks. I'm about to book the day 2 PCRs and I can see that gov guidance says that children 5 and older need one - HOWEVER, last month we went abroad to this same country, and my 7 year old's day 2 PCR reference code wasn't even checked (there was no option to enter the code in the Passenger Locator Form). Have I got the gov't guidance wrong? Worried about wasting £60/£70 on a test for him if it's not actually needed (happy to pay if it's needed).

I think you are right. We are going to Spain next week, and my kids (6 and 9) don’t need the the test just before the return flight but do need to Day 2 test.

Its a legal requirement. If they check before you board the plane (airlines responsibility) then you will be refused to board the plane or if checked in the U.K. it’s a fine. Are you willing to take that risk?

The requirements are there in black and white. Your 7 year old needs a test on day 2. If you’re choosing to travel abroad you need to accept the cost I’m afraid.

I thought maybe someone forgot to update the gov website. What’s odd is that the passenger locator form specifically asks for the day 2 PCR codes for the adults travelling, but even when you declare a child travelling it won’t ask for the code. The airline staff didn’t ask for anything other than the PLF and the proof of vaccination. Hopefully the government will catch onto that gap soon and fix the PLF.