THE Foreign Office has rejected claims from operators that its advice is too vague but said it would listen to suggestions of US-style grading system.
Despite promising to look at ways of improving the advice, officials said the advice was clear if common sense was adopted.
A spokesman said:”We advise against non-essential travel and do not consider travel as essential which is common sense. As for a grading system, if it is suggested by the industry, we will certainly consider it.”
The spokesman, who said the advice is held as a role model by other countries, dismissed accusations from operators that the advice is politically motivated.
“We take into account the domestic political situation of a country.
“We are not swayed because of the relationship we have with a country,” the spokesman insisted.
However, he admitted that in some countries where the Government is not represented, advice may not be as reliable.
“We do our best but we are relying on advice from neighbouring countries which may not be as accurate,” he said.
He added wording will remain in place for three months if there is no update from the embassy.
“After that date, we will specifically ask our staff of the latest situation.”