Travellers heading from the UK to Europe have been warned by the Foreign Office to be on their guard in countries including Germany and France as a ‘high threat’ warning is issued. The UK’s most serious foreign travel warning was announced because the threat of a terrorist attack somewhere in Europe is thought to be highly likely.

The US has already issued a warning to its citizens visiting Europe, including the UK. A spokesman for the White House said ever since the President learned of a possible threat from al-Qaida, he has requested that everything possible should be done to protect American people and disrupt the plot.

The FCO’s travel warning is based on information supplied by various intelligence and security agencies; the Joint Terrorism Analysis Centre; local knowledge, embassy and media reports. Such sources have warned that al-Qaida is planning to send groups of gunmen to tourist hotspots in order to open fire on civilian targets.

Those analysing the reports have concluded that militants intend to attempt something similar to the 2008 Mumbai attacks in cities in the UK, France and Germany. Theresa May, the UK’s Home Secretary, said in reaction to the American warnings that the government’s primary duty would be to protect British people and those visiting the UK.

In a statement she added that the US assessment of the situation was backed up by a British counter terrorism reports. She said there was a very real threat, urging everyone to be vigilant and report anything suspicious to the authorities.