Top Conservative alleges travel companies are profiting unfairly.

Alicia Kearns aligns with the government’s stance against travel to Greek islands. She, a Tory MP and chair of the Commons foreign affairs select committee, supports discouraging travel to Rhodes due to the situation, despite the government’s reluctance to deviate from its other advisories. Kearns distinguishes between travel companies that canceled trips and those still operating flights, urging responsibility and recognition that original holiday plans may need to change.

She emphasizes that while the government has a legal duty to assist distressed British citizens, travel firms shouldn’t prioritize profits by flying tourists out and then leaving the government to handle their return in certain cases.

On another front, a Foreign Office minister refrained from advising against travel to Rhodes, suggesting contact with tour operators instead. He noted the limited scope of the fires on the island, clarifying that evacuations were not taking place in tourist areas in Corfu, despite reports of fires there.

The UK government faced pressure to swiftly add Rhodes to the “red list” from Labour MPs and the Liberal Democrats. Layla Moran of the Lib Dems highlighted the financial penalties faced by families unable to claim insurance for canceled trips. Criticism also emerged regarding the delayed deployment of government officials to assist stranded British tourists on Rhodes.

The Foreign Office estimated between 7,000 to 10,000 British tourists on Rhodes but advised consulting tour operators for guidance on individual trips. However, Mitchell, the minister, noted he probably wouldn’t personally vacation on Rhodes at this time, emphasizing the importance of seeking advice from official sources and tour operators for those with upcoming trips.