Greece will not allow direct flights from the UK until 15 July

The UK government’s 'double lock' to prevent overseas tourism is expected to be lifted for some countries, including Greece, from 6 July

After growing confusion over travel to Greece for British holidaymakers, the prime minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis has confirmed that no flights from the UK will be allowed until 15 July.

The country opens to other European nationalities, except Sweden, on 1 July.

But concern about high levels of coronavirus infection in both the UK and Sweden have led to the cancellation of the first two weeks of July for airlines and tour operators from the two countries.

The decision was taken this afternoon at a meeting at the prime minister’s official seat, the Maximos Mansion.

Previously the tourism minister, Haris Theoharis, had warned that Greece may require British holidaymakers to wait up to three weeks before they could visit.

It is not clear if any steps will be taken to prevent UK holidaymakers reaching Greece by other routes.

The Independent has sought clarification from the Greek authorities.

The immediate impact is to ground all planned flights and holidays up to 14 July. Passengers wil be entitled to refunds of air fares or package holiday costs.

The UK government’s “double lock” to prevent overseas tourism is expected to be lifted for some countries, including Greece, next Monday, 6 July.