EU Entry-Exit System Transport Delays 2026-07-16
2026-07-16
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Direct Answer
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Context
Discussions around the EU entry-exit system's impact on passenger flows and border delays.
What discussions she has had with Cabinet colleagues on transport delays caused by the EU entry-exit system?
The Transport Secretary and I have held regular discussions about preparations for the EU entry-exit system, and its potential impacts on passenger flows. The Secretary of State has engaged directly with counterparts in France and the European Union, stressing the need for appropriate border staffing levels to support smooth journeys for British travellers.
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Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
The European Commission has confirmed that member states can suspend EES checks for up to 90 days at peak times.
Can the Minister confirm whether there have been conversations with European counterparts about applying flexibility at Dover, Folkestone and St Pancras this summer?
The Secretary of State has met her French counterpart and the relevant commissioner at the European Union to discuss a range of issues relating to EES. We continually discuss what easements or adjustments are necessary to ensure that flows are appropriately managed.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific discussions about applying flexibility at Dover, Folkestone and St Pancras were not confirmed
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Q3
Direct Answer
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Context
Road haulage companies in the constituency are reporting huge delays due to EES.
Will the Minister meet me and those in the freight and logistics sector to find solutions?
I would be glad to meet my hon. Friend and representatives from the freight sector. We want to ensure that we get this right, so I would be glad to meet her to discuss this subject.
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Q4
Direct Answer
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Context
The Government is facing criticism for last-minute meetings with European counterparts to address issues.
How on earth have we got to a situation where the Secretary of State is making last-minute dashes to the European Commission and the French Government?
The meetings that we are having on EES, both in Government and with our counterparts, are to ensure that we get this right, ahead of the peak period. We have supported the port of Dover and Eurotunnel with £3.5 million each in preparation for EES, and earlier this week, we announced £20 million in funding, subject to relevant checks, to further support border infrastructure at the port of Dover.
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Q5
Partial Answer
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Context
There are concerns that the introduction of the EES system will cause chaos for holidaymakers and freight operators.
If we get the chaos predicted, will the Government demand that the system be shut down and paused until technology is ready?
Ministers have been clear with French and EU counterparts, that they should do all they can to avoid disruption, including using existing flexibilities in EES regulations. We are not being complacent and asking for things retrospectively; we are taking the right steps now.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific commitment to shutting down or pausing the system was not given
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Q6
Partial Answer
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Context
The Secretary of State's announcement provided details on UK and French borders, but less on EU member country airports.
What tangible and specific outcomes resulted from discussions with the European Commission regarding airport passenger flow?
We have discussed the flow of passengers through member state airports with our relevant partners in the European Commission, and we continue to raise issues at both in-country posts and ministerial level.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific outcomes or commitments regarding airport flows were not detailed
Response accuracy