A quarantine regime will be introduced on June 8 requiring arrivals to the UK to self-isolate for 14 days. But ministers hope to strike quarantine-free pacts or 'air bridges with summer destinations – such as France, Spain and Greece – by August and possibly July.

They are also examining the idea of 'Covid passports' to let those who have had the disease travel more widely and without having to go into quarantine on their return.

Home Secretary Priti Patel said she is 'absolutely open' to the idea of air bridges between nations sparking fresh hope for Britons wanting to travel abroad in the summer months.