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Inquiry findings on EU Entry/Exit scheme published by Committee

24 May 2024

The European Scrutiny Committee has written to the Government after examining the EU Entry Exit scheme and the UK border.

The scheme would introduce a requirement for biometric checks when leaving the UK for the block. However, the registration of fingerprint information as part of this could lead to delays at juxtaposed borders potentially amounting to 14-hour tailbacks at Dover, the Committee heard. The current implementation date is 6 October.

To reduce the risk of disruption, Government should seek effective dialogue with European authorities, the Committee said in a letter to Border Minister Tom Pursglove and Transport Minister Guy Opperman. It should aim to have the scheme’s start date reconsidered, seek a derogation on the collection of fingerprints at juxtaposed borders and for the swift rollout of a mobile registration app.

The Committee also called for more funding to juxtaposed ports and for plans to be made for an awareness campaign for people crossing for the first time to avoid delays.

With all Parliamentary committees set to dissolve ahead of the general election, the Committee has decided to write to the Government on the matter. The Committee has also written to the Government on:

  • Retained EU law: the progress and mechanics of reform
  • PESCO and UK-EU Defence Cooperation
  • Regulating after Brexit

You can find more information on each of the Committees inquiries that will halt on dissolution on the links below:

Further information

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