European Entry-Exit System Requirements: Port of Dover

Opened the debate

The port of Dover processes more than £144 billion in freight annually and supports thousands of jobs. Current border controls are well-oiled, but the upcoming EU digital borders system will require biometric checks for every individual crossing an external border, posing practical challenges at a busy port like Dover. There is a risk of sustained delays and disruption to trade if these operational issues are not resolved swiftly.

Government Response

It is a pleasure to serve under your chairmanship, Mr Efford. I am grateful to my hon. Friend the Member for Dover (Mrs Elphicke) for securing the debate, and to other colleagues for attending it. This is clearly a topic of some importance, and I welcome the opportunity to set out the Government's understanding of the current position regarding the EU's entry-exit system (EES). The EES affects non-EU citizens travelling into the EU's Schengen zone and will be undertaken by French officers prior to departure from the UK at locations such as Dover. As a Schengen border measure, the design and implementation of the EES is a matter for the EU member states, not the UK Government or Border Force. However, the UK has an interest in its efficient implementation and operation due to potential impacts on passengers travelling from the UK into the EU, particularly freight operations across the short straits. The juxtaposed controls that we operate have been in place for almost 30 years and enable secure checks, protecting our borders effectively. Passenger numbers remain a fraction of pre-pandemic levels, but returning to normal volumes with increased checks could cause queues. We are aware of this potential disruption and are working closely with French counterparts to ensure efficient implementation. The biometric data captured includes facial photographs and fingerprints under the supervision of border officials for security reasons. To mitigate challenges posed by passengers in vehicles, we will work with our partners to determine infrastructure requirements and explore alternatives that prioritise safety. We recognise the port of Dover's role as a key entry and exit point for goods and passengers. In 2019, it handled more than 1 million roll-on-roll-off units and nearly 11 million passengers. To ensure border effectiveness through 2022 with staged customs controls ending on January 1st and EES implementation in September, we will continue to engage with the port, chamber of shipping, and road hauliers across Government departments. We are committed to protecting this vital link and maintaining flow without compromising security.