Clarence Mitchell, the family’s spokesman, said talks were going on among the group over whether it would be useful.

However, it is understood they are wary of returning to Portugal, where Mr and Mrs McCann remain formal suspects.

Police in Portugal are reported to be pushing for the group to return to Praia da Luz for the re-enactment, which would be to help the investigators and would not be televised.

Mr Mitchell told reporters: “The discussions about the possible visit by all nine are ongoing. It is down to the friends – as well as Kate and Gerry – to decide whether they want to go back.

“Of course, Kate and Gerry would do anything they could if they thought it would help find their daughter.

“There are some serious questions surrounding the value of the proposed exercise.”