Shadow transport minister Jim McMahon urged Shapps to publish the decision issuing guidance on government’s traffic light system following last week’s update in which Malta was added to the green list.

"More importantly we want to see the analysis that underpins [the decisions]," McMahon added. "We have been pushing for the government to show international leadership, but so far they have failed to step up. International cooperation is key to getting overseas travel back up and running again."

McMahon also questioned why the government has "not brought forward plans" for an international vaccine passport. 

"Frankly, patience has run out. It is important action is taken and taken now," he added. 

In response, Shapps said: "Our border regime is one of the toughest in the world, and I know it is closely tracked and followed by other countries.

"We are now focused on the long-term, how to keep our country safe, whilst getting international travel back up and running.

"These decisions are not easy, and they will not be enhanced by simple calls to stick countries on a green or red list without providing a level of detail that the amber list does."