Quarantine advice

Whilst there has been no official government announcement it does seem very likely from 6 July, blanket restrictions on non-essential overseas travel will be relaxed in the UK.

Holidaymakers will be allowed to travel to certain European countries without having to spend 14 days in quarantine upon their return.

The list of so-called ‘travel corridors’ due to be published next week and is expected to include Belgium, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Italy, the Netherlands, Norway, Spain and Turkey – but not Portugal or Sweden.

Foreign Office advice against all but essential international travel has been in place since 17 March.

Under the new rules, a traffic light system will be introduced – with countries classified as green, amber or red depending on the prevalence of coronavirus. The UK is likely to discuss arrangements with countries over the coming days.

A government spokesman said measures would give people "the opportunity for a summer holiday abroad" while also boosting the UK economy – but stressed the relaxation depended on risks staying low, "it wouldn't hesitate to put on the brakes if the situation changes”.

The situation regarding Scotland and Wales is unclear and this will affect Newcastle and Bristol airports.

www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice

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OUR READERS' FINEST WORDS (All times and dates are GMT)

All comments are filtered to exclude any excesses but the Editor does not have to agree with what is being said. 100 words maximum

Peter Philips, Belfast

Does the Foreign Office speak to the Home Office?

Andy King, Crawley

Well done the Foreign Office for sticking to its guns by way of advice even if it is not what we want to hear.