With the number of infected cases continuing to spiral across the world, the Government minister told all British traveller to return immediately. A number of countires have shut their borders in response to the crisis and the MP warned failure to retunr hiome now may leave Britons stranded abroad. Mr Raab said: “We are strongly urging UK travellers overseas to return home now where and while there are still commercial routes to do so.

If you are on holiday abroad the time to come home is now while you still can

Dominic Raab

“Around the world, more airlines are suspending flights and more airports are closing, some without any notice.

“Where commercial routes don’t exist, our staff are working round the clock to give advice and support to UK nationals.

“If you are on holiday abroad the time to come home is now while you still can.”

Mr Raab backed up his statement with a tweet in which he said: “My message to British people travelling abroad: As borders around the world close and international travel becomes more difficult, you are strongly advised to return to the UK now, where & while there are still commercial travel options available. Keep up to date with @FCOtravel.”

The Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) said further closures to air routes may come in the next 48 hours – possibly without notice.

Some British tourists are already experiencing difficulties due to travel restrictions and domestic policies around the globe, the FCO said, but added it was working “around the clock” to support those stranded abroad.

This advice applies to British people travelling abroad, rather than those who live overseas.

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The Government said it is working with airlines to keep routes open and is calling for international action for enough time to enable international travellers to return on commercial flights.

Last week, Britons were advised against non-essential travel to anywhere in the world as the Covid-19 crisis closed borders.

The advice, issued on March 17, was set to last for an initial 30-day period.

Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said: “This is a very difficult time for British citizens travelling overseas, or those with families and loved ones abroad.

“We’re in close contact with airlines, who are working tirelessly to ensure British citizens travelling overseas can safely return to the UK.

“We are also working closely with other government departments including the FCO to ensure airlines are able to operate to bring people back home.”

The FCO is advising British travellers to contact their tour operator or airline immediately to arrange a commercial flight if they want to leave.

More to follow…

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