Travel operators address relatives of missing holidaymakers in Tunisia

Thomson and First Choice have moved to reassure relatives of missing holidaymakers who may have been caught up in the Tunisian terror attack, amid news the British death toll could climb as high as 30. 

Families of the missing have expressed frustration with the lack of information being provided by the Foreign Commonwealth Office (FCO), as it was revealed up to 15 victims have yet to be identified.

In a carefully worded statement, Thomson and First Choice said their priority was to provide support to the families of those “who so tragically lost loved ones in Friday’s incident, caring for the injured and bringing home those customers from Tunisia who wish to return”.

“We are aware that some families continue to wait for news of their loved ones. We would like to reassure those in this position that we are doing everything we can to provide information as soon as we are able to do so,” the companies said.

“As has been widely reported, the authorities are required to undertake a number of rigorous procedures in circumstances such as this which can take time.

“We have been working closely with the FCO and Metropolitan Police and, once they have completed their initial formalities, we are offering all possible support to the families of those who have died or have been injured. This includes, should they wish to, flying them to and from Tunisia.

“We are also in close contact with the injured who remain in Tunisia and who are receiving medical care. Again, we are providing them with as much assistance as possible through our resort teams on the ground.”

The companies said they had repatriated more than 4,000 UK holidaymakers since the incident.

Anyone with concerns about friends and families should continue to call 0800 0885372.

For other TUI related queries for future departures to Tunisia, call: 0800 0093835; landline: (+44) 2036361996