Escalating violence in Libya has prompted the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) to shut down its embassy in the country.
Intense fighting in Tripoli, including near to the British embassy compound, already saw many staff evacuated earlier this week but now the FCO will suspend its consulate once it has assisted the departure of British nationals.
In the last few days, sporadic fighting between rival militias has spread northwards in Tripoli, including into the area where the British embassy is situated and tourists are advised against all travel to the country.
Many of the consular staff were evacuated last Monday but the ambassador and core staff remained, although they will now also return to the UK.
An FCO spokesman said: "The protection of our staff is paramount, and we assess that the current environment in Tripoli does not allow us to operate safely. We have therefore decided temporarily to relocate UK-based staff from the country."
Since the overthrow in 2011 of Colonel Muammar Gaddafi by rebels supported by British and French air strikes, the north African country has descended into a state of lawlessness as rival militias struggle for power and wealth.
The British embassy is arranging an assisted departure for Britons in the country but places are limited and people are advised to find their own way home on commercial flights, with limited departures from Misrata and Maitega airports.
There are believed to be between 100 and 300 Britons in the north African country.
On Wednesday, British Airways suspended flights to and from Tripoli up to and including Tuesday August 5 due to the security situation at the country's main international airport.
An FCO spokesman added: "Fighting has intensified in Tripoli, including around the British embassy compounds. In the light of the deteriorating security situation, we are taking steps temporarily to suspend operations at the British embassy in Tripoli after the planned assisted departure of British Nationals.
"The UK government has changed its travel advice to reflect the ongoing security situation. We advise against all travel to Libya and urge British nationals in Libya to leave through commercially available means.
"The British embassy is arranging an assisted departure for British Nationals. Places are limited and requests for travel will be strictly prioritised. We plan temporarily to suspend operations at the British embassy following the assisted departure. We will not be able to offer consular assistance after August 4."