The Beta variant of coronavirus spreading in France poses a “threat” to the UK with evidence suggesting it may evade the effect of vaccines, a scientist involved in advising the government has warned. Professor John Edmunds, of the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine and a member of the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (Sage), said he could understand concerns over the variant that have led to last-minute travel rule changes. It was announced on Friday evening that holidaymakers returning from France must continue to quarantine—even if they are double jabbed—when restrictions on other amber list countries are eased. Ministers said the move was a precautionary measure due to concerns over the “persistent presence” of the Beta variant in the country. Edmunds told the BBC’s Radio 4 Today programme: “The Beta variant has remained a threat throughout. It is probably less infectious than the Delta variant that is spreading …