However, experts have again warned cases of Covid-19 are on the rise again across some parts of the UK.

Elsewhere, Boris Johnson appears to have failed to secure increased supplies of oil during a visit to Saudi Arabia, meaning prices will likely remain high owing to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine following Russia’s invasion.

Here are the key national headlines travel should be aware of on Thursday 17 March.

Hopes for high streets with decline in vacant premises

The number of empty shops and restaurants in Britain has fallen for the first time since 2018, prompting hopes a post-pandemic recovery is under way. In the second half of 2021, the national vacancy rate declined by 0.1% from the first half to reach 14.4% of all shops, according to the Local Data Company. (The Times)

Rising flight prices ‘not a deterrent’

The possibility of higher airline ticket prices will not stop most people from holidaying abroad this year. Lee Thompson, boss of solo holiday specialist Flash Pack, said the need for human connection outweighed concerns. People are so desperate to get away they will pay more if aviation fuel prices rise following sanctions against Russian oil exports. (BBC News)

Covid expert warns of rising levels

A professor has accused ministers of "wanting to get rid of data and move on" as Covid cases across the UK spiked by nearly 50% over the last week. In the last seven days, 444,201 coronavirus cases were reported. Tim Spector, professor of genetic epidemiology at Kings College London, said he was concerned restrictions were being rolled back. (Sky News)

Johnson fails to secure more oil

Boris Johnson has failed to secure a commitment from Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates to raise oil production after a day-long visit to the two Gulf countries. The prime minister was heavily criticised by MPs ahead of his trip to Riyadh after the Saudis executed 81 people at the weekend. (Financial Times)

France offers Corsica autonomy after riots

President Macron has offered Corsica the prospect of autonomy after ten days of violent protests on the island. Macron’s government has indicated it could accept devolution as a solution to the long-festering resentment over 250 years of administration from Paris. (The Times)

British Airways pilots sue after wrenching necks

Sixteen British Airways pilots are suing for more than £250,000, claiming they strained their necks turning round to check cockpit security cameras. They say they were left in pain by repeatedly having to look behind them at a screen to see who was asking to be admitted to the flight deck. (The Sun)