Exit checks introduced at UK borders

The police and security services’ ability to track the movement of known criminals and terrorists has improved following the introduction of exit checks at all UK borders, according to the Home Office.

The measure, which came into force on Wednesday (April 8), is also expected to help monitor individuals suspected to be leaving the UK to fight abroad, such as in Syria.

Minister for Security and Immigration James Brokenshire said: “It is vital for the country’s economy that our ports operate smoothly and that families can get away on holiday on time, and important for our security that we continue to strengthen our borders.

“After two years spent working closely with the ports we will stay focused on successfully introducing these checks together.”

Exit checks will take place at all airports and ports in the UK and information that is included in passports or travel documents will be retained for passengers leaving the country.

For the first month all passports will be scanned but only 25 per cent of passport holders will have their details verified to ensure they are genuine. After a month, it will move to 50 per cent verification and in June 100 per cent verification will be introduced.

However, the Shadow Immigration Minister criticised the Government for the delay in introducing the checks and said it will cause chaos for travellers.

The Government had previously promised to have exit checks in place across the country before the general election.

David Hanson said: “The Government has had five years to get this right but hasn’t worked with operators properly, so we risk seeing long queues and backlogs for downgraded partial checks that will still leave gaping holes in our border.

“Theresa May has spent millions of pounds on checks and still hasn’t got it right.”