News

Foreign Office advises against non-essential travel to Bangkok

The Foreign Office is now advising against all but essential travel to Bangkok as it once again falls prey to violent rioting.


The FO reviewed its advice after a state of emergency was declared in the Thai capital as renewed political riots and violence leading to the deaths of two people broke out over the weekend.


Holidaymakers are being urged to think again about travelling to other parts of the country while British nationals already caught up in the troubles are advised to stay indoors and monitor both the media and the Foreign Office’s own travel advice.


FO minister Bill Rammell said: “Today’s reports of increasing tension are of real concern.


“We do not believe that violence has any part to play in achieving political aims and urge restraint.”


The latest protests broke out over the weekend, leading to the Thai government declaring a state of emergency in Bangkok and surrounding provinces on April 12.


Violent clashes between former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra’s supporters and the army have occurred in both Bangkok and Pattaya, leading to 70 people being injured as well as the two deaths.


The protests follow those at the end of last year when opponents to the government closed down Bangkok’s international airport Suvarnabhumi in November and December.


Homepage image: Rex Features

Share article

View Comments

Jacobs Media is honoured to be the recipient of the 2020 Queen's Award for Enterprise.

The highest official awards for UK businesses since being established by royal warrant in 1965. Read more.