Tuesday, August 27, 2024 In response to the forthcoming implementation of the European Union’s Entry-Exit System (EES), the UK government has announced a £10.5 million funding package aimed at preventing excessive queues at key border points. The EES set to be launched on November 10, 2024, following several delays due to technical issues, will require biometric data, such as digital photos and fingerprints, to be collected from visitors entering the EU from third countries, including the UK.
Funding Allocation and Preparedness Initiatives The UK government’s financial support will be distributed equally among three critical border points: Eurostar’s UK operations at London’s St Pancras International station, Eurotunnel, and the Port of Dover. Each of these sites will receive £3.5 million to enhance infrastructure, implement new technologies, and recruit and train staff to ensure a smooth transition when the EES comes into effect.
Lilian Greenwood, the UK’s Minister for the Future of Roads, emphasized the importance of this funding, stating, “Our priority is to prevent long queues at our ports and ensure a seamless experience for travelers. Although the EES is an EU-led initiative, we are taking proactive steps to ensure our borders are fully prepared for its implementation.” Eurostar’s Preparations Eurostar has been at the forefront of preparing for the EES.
The company has already begun installing 49 new kiosks at London’s St Pancras station to meet the .