PM to cancel his Thai Christmas

David Cameron is to cancel a planned family holiday to Thailand this Christmas, following complaints from campaigners about the country's human-rights record.

The Prime Minister had faced claims that the trip would be viewed as "showing support" for a "brutal" regime. The United Front for Democracy Against Dictatorship – known as the Red Shirts – has submitted abuse claims to the International Criminal Court. More than 90 protesters were killed in angry clashes in Bangkok earlier this year, as the government moved to crack down on the demonstrations.

Downing Street said it would not comment on the Camerons' plans, but it is understood that the family had booked flights some time ago and now felt it was better to enjoy the festive season in England. It had been reported that Mr Cameron chose Thailand because the Thai Prime Minister, Abhisit Vejjajiva, is a fellow Old Etonian – something that No 10 denies.

This summer the Camerons holidayed in Cornwall, a break interrupted by the early birth of their daughter Florence.