FCO underlines importance of insurance

The Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) has urged Brits "not to cut corners" on travel insurance following research on problems that have been encountered overseas.

A study carried out between April 2006 and March 2007 found that 8,304 Britons needed assistance in the USA and 6,710 passports were lost in Spain.

In a separate piece of research by the FCO, two thirds of Brits said they are planning to spend less on their holidays this year, raising concerns that people could attempt to save money by travelling without insurance.

Foreign office minister Meg Munn said: "This report highlights what can go wrong on holiday.

"It is a reminder to all that taking out comprehensive travel insurance is a crucial part of your holiday planning and not something that should be sacrificed in order to save a few pounds."

Ms Munn also advised carrying out research into the laws, customs and health requirements of one's travel destination, which could help many people "prevent their holidays being ruined".

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