In today's daily press briefing, foreign secretary Dominic Raab announced a detailed rescue plan to bring tens of thousands of UK travellers' home.

In his speech, Mr Raab said: "We haven't faced challenges like this to get people home from abroad in recent memory.

"Airports are closing down or preventing airlines from operating on a commercial basis.

"Local authorities are placing restrictions on movement that prevents people getting to the airport.

"And the critical transit hubs that we rely on for long-haul flights are also shutting down or in some cases limiting their flights.

"International collaboration is absolutely vital.

"As I said it is a team effort and it involves government working with other governments but also working with the airlines.

"So, with that in mind, I can today announce a new arrangement between the Government and airlines to fly home tens of thousands of stranded British travellers where commercial flights are no longer possible

"Partner airlines include British Airways, Virgin, Easyjet, Jet2 and Titan and this list can be expanded.

"Under the arrangements that we are putting in place, we will target flights from a range of priority countries starting this week.

"Where commercial routes remain and option, airlines will be responsible for getting passengers home.

"That means offering alternative flights, at little to no cost where routes have been cancelled.

"It means allowing passengers to change tickets, including between carriers.

"So, for those still within those countries where commercial options are still available don't wait.

"Don't run the risk of getting stranded - the airlines are standing by to help you. Please book your tickets as soon as possible."

He continued: "Where commercial flights are no longer running, the Government will provide the necessary financial support for special charter flights to bring UK nationals back home.

"Once special charter flights have been arranged, we will promote them through the Government's travel advice and the British embassy.

"British travellers who want a seat on these flights will book and pay directly through a dedicated travel management company.

"We have designated £75m to support those flights and the airlines in order to keep the costs down and affordable for those seeking to return to the UK."

In arranging these flights, the Government's priority will be for the most vulnerable including the elderly or those with particularly pressing medical needs.

It was also mentioned that priority will also be given to countries where large numbers of UK tourists are still struggling to get home.