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Government advises against ‘all but essential’ travel outside the UK

Paloma Kubiak
Written By:
Paloma Kubiak
Posted:
Updated:
17/03/2020

British Nationals have been advised against ‘all but essential’ travel worldwide for 30 days.

Speaking in the Commons, foreign secretary Dominic Raab said the advice comes into effect immediately, though it will be subject to ongoing review.

He said: “UK travellers abroad now face widespread international border restrictions and lock downs in various countries. The speed and range of those measures across other countries is unprecedented.

“So I have taken the decision to advise British nationals against all non-essential international travel.”

Raab added that the decision on whether to travel is an individual decision and will be based on business, family, and circumstances which will differ per person, but he “strongly advises against travel globally”.

He said: “British people who decide that they still need to travel abroad should be fully aware of the increased risks of doing so. That includes the risk that they may not be able to get home, if travel restrictions are put in place. Anyone still considering travel to be realistic about the level of disruption they are willing and able to endure, and to make decisions in light of the unprecedented conditions we face.

“This is a national effort to meet the international challenge of coronavirus.”

Anyone still planning to travel should check the validity of their travel insurance.

UK inward and outward travel has already fallen by a significant amount since the outbreak of coronavirus. Ryanair, Virgin and EasyJet have cut flights by 80% this month and IAG has decreased capacity by 75%.