The Home Office has warned travellers entering the UK that they could face longer wait times from February 17 to February 20 as Border Force staff walk out. Planned industrial action has been announced by the Public and Commercial Services (PCS) union.
Border Force staff are expected to walk out on February 17,18,19 and until 7am on February 20. The proposed strike action will impact both passengers and freight entering the UK via the Port of Calais, Port of Dunkirk and the Coquelles Channel Tunnel Terminal. Although located outside of the UK, these ports have controls which allow Border Force to check passengers and freight before they begin their journey.
The Home Office said: “Travellers who are planning to enter the UK between 17 February and 20 February 2023 may face longer wait times at border control. Travellers should check the latest travel advice with operators before travelling.
READ MORE:
“Please be patient and respect officers who are working to keep the UK border safe and secure for all travellers during strike action. We encourage all passengers eligible to use eGates to do so.”
It said that those entering the UK via these ports should prepare for “disruption” and check before travel. The Home Office said Military personnel, civil servants and volunteers from across the government are being trained to support Border Force, with resources ready to be deployed to help support the flow of travellers.
It added: “We are working closely with port authorities, operators and French counterparts to make sure travellers are prepared and do not experience unnecessary delays at the border due to the proposed strike action.”
For more of today's top stories, click here.
READ NEXT:
- UK Foreign Office issue travel warning about Turkey earthquake
- Ryanair issues 'savage' response to passenger complaining about seat
- Martin Lewis issues warning to everyone booking a summer holiday saying they need to act ASAP
- TUI warn of phishing scam targeting holidaymakers
- Martin Lewis issues fees warning to students starting university from this year
