Jacqueline Dobson, president of Barrhead Travel, said she is pleased that some of the travel sector’s requests have been taken into consideration, but "it should never have taken a country-wide protest for the government to take action". 

Her comments come following the Travel Day of Action on Wednesday (23 June) and after Scotland added Malta, the Balearic Islands and Madeira to its green list on Thursday (24 June). 

"We welcome today’s announcement – albeit with some caution – which finally brings several key holiday destinations on to the green list in time for the summer season," she added. 

"The additions will come as a great relief not just for the travel industry, but for thousands of holidaymakers and those with plans to visit loved ones abroad."

Dobson further called on the UK government and devolved nations to ensure "better communication" with the industry ahead of the next traffic light update in three weeks’ time.

SPAA president Joanne Dooey also called on the governments to "maintain a four-nations approach" going forward with the restart to international leisure travel. 

"Being able to travel to amber countries if you have been double-vaccinated is the next positive move we need. We need to bring back customer confidence that holidays can be booked now," she added. 

"Any destination going on the green list which has a route from Scotland is welcome. The Balearic Islands are one of the most popular destinations for Scots to travel on holiday.

"Travel agents can hope for a surge in bookings as the schools break up."