On Tuesday (17 March), the Foreign Secretary made a statement on changes to Foreign & Commonwealth Office (FCO) travel advice in light of the coronavirus pandemic.

The Foreign Secretary announced that, with immediate effect, the FCO advised British nationals against non-essential travel globally for at least the next 30 days.

The Foreign Secretary said the decision to change the advice was taken based on domestic measures introduced in the UK, alongside changes, including lockdowns and border restrictions, taken by other countries around the world. The new advice will be subject to ongoing review.

While the new advice reduces the risk of leaving vulnerable British tourists and visitors stranded overseas, many are already abroad. The Foreign Secretary said UK consular teams are working with those affected by quarantines in other countries, and working to ensure that governments have plans to enable the return of British and other travellers.

I do not believe the Government can keep passing the buck to others, especially when it comes to the repatriation of British nationals. There should be clear protocols in place for evacuation and repatriation and they should be followed.