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New passport processing slows entry into the UK

New technology is being introduced into Gatwick, Birmingham and Luton airports which will both improve security in airports in the UK and slow down the processing of passengers as they enter the country.

The newly formed Border and Immigration Agency (BIA) is the body responsible for the new technology which uses digital data to add to passport information as passengers enter the UK. Laser scans will soon be able to read biometric information from passports, helping reduce passport forgery and fraud.

One spokesperson for BIA explained: "While allowing most passengers into the UK quickly, thorough checks are necessary to identify criminals, prevent illegal immigration and protect the public. We make no apologies for enforcing our borders."

A spokesperson for the Immigration Service Union estimates that the changes will double the time it takes to process passengers through immigration.

In anticipation of the busy summer season and the potentially longer time it will take to go through immigration, BIA has added more staff to the system to try and speed things up.

The number of border control staff is at an all-time high, said a BIA spokesperson, emphasising that everything was being done to minimise line-ups including synching staffing of border control check points with incoming flights and projected passenger numbers, whenever possible.

Nevertheless, those traveling into the UK this summer should pack their patience and be ready for a line-up as they head through immigration.


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Jennifer JonesEditorial


21/06/2007


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