Coronavirus: British travellers overseas told to return home

British travellers overseas have been told to return to the UK as soon as possible or risk being stranded abroad.

The Foreign Office issued new advice warning that further closures to air routes were possible in the next 48 hours, potentially without notice.

Hundreds of British citizens are already struggling to make it home from countries like Peru, where airports have been shut down and internal travel bans are in place.

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The Foreign Office said it was working "around the clock" to support those stranded abroad.

Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab leaves Downing StreetForeign Secretary Dominic Raab leaves Downing Street
Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab leaves Downing Street

The government also 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.

Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab said: "We are strongly urging UK travellers overseas to return home now where and while there are still commercial routes to do so.

"Around the world, more airlines are suspending flights and more airports are closing, some without any notice… If you are on holiday abroad the time to come home is now while you still can."

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

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

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

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