British spies uncover intelligence of ‘bomb placed in Russian airplane hold’

British spies have uncovered evidence that suggests a bomb was smuggled into the hold of the Russian jet that crashed in Egypt, killing 224 people. UK intelligence found evidence of the plot in intercepts picked up as part of a review of material carried out in the wake of the 31 October disaster. The discovery by GCHQ prompted Britain to dispatch experts to Sharm el Sheikh to review security at the airport - leading to the suspension of all flights to and from the resort. The discovery has created a diplomatic row with Egypt and Russia, who want to see the intelligence, having previously played down Islamic State claims of responsibility.

A lot of people have checked out and left their hotels. They were in a panic saying they have to go.

Tourist Lauryn Mudzimu, 35, from London

British Prime Minister suspended British flights to the resort of Sharm el-Sheikh in light of the intelligence. Some flights expected to ferry the first of thousands of British holidaymakers out Sharm el-Sheikh have been suspended by Egyptian authorities. EasyJet, Thomson Airways, British Airways, Thomas Cook and Monarch all announced they were planning to operate services to the UK. But passengers will only be allowed to carry hang luggage - their suitcases will follow on later planes. President Barack Obama has said the US is taking “very seriously” the possibility that a bomb caused the disaster, echoing earlier comments from officials that such a prospect was not being ruled out.

Our utmost priority is to make sure we have all the right measures in place to ensure that British citizens can return safely to the UK.

Downing St spokesman