Prime minister David Cameron has stated that he is prepared to override Britain's obligations under EU treaties and deny Greek citizens UK immigration rights.
There is mounting concern that there could be a mass exodus from Greece if the state of its economy declines much further. At the moment the country's future remains uncertain due to indecision and instability regarding Greek austerity measures.
However, it appears that the prime minister is preparing for the worst as he has informed MPs that ministers have examined legal powers that would permit Britain to prevent Greek citizens from accessing their right to free movement across the EU if "stresses and strains" within the eurozone develop further.
"I would be prepared to do whatever it takes to keep our country safe, to keep our banking system strong, to keep our economy robust," stated Mr Cameron. "At the end of the day, as prime minister, that is your first and foremost duty."
He added that several contingency plans have been drawn up regarding the state of the eurozone. The worst case scenario, which could potentially see UK visa changesbrought in for Greek citizens, would be for Greece to exit the eurozone, resulting in economic and political turmoil.