Andy Burnham has been urged to lobby EU leaders directly to suspend the new Entry/Exit System (EES) border controls as millions of British holidaymakers face delays. The Liberal Democrats' foreign affairs spokesperson Calum Miller called on the prime minister to push for a suspension of the “bungled, malfunctioning border system” until at least September. With 2.2 million Britons heading abroad over the peak weekend, the EES—which requires non-EU citizens to register, be photographed, and fingerprinted—has caused long queues and missed flights.
What Is the EES Border Control System?
The EES (Entry/Exit System) is an automated IT system for registering non-EU nationals, including UK citizens, when they cross EU external borders. It records their name, travel document type, and biometric data (fingerprints and facial images). Launched last year and technically in full force since April, border police have been allowed to relax requirements during extreme delays, but many passengers still face disruptions.
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Impact on UK Holidaymakers
Thousands of travellers have already experienced extended wait times at passport control. At Heathrow airport on Friday, Miller stated: “Holidaymakers and hauliers should not be punished by a bungled, malfunctioning border system that is completely out of their control.” He urged Burnham to “pick up the phone to each and every European leader – and persuade them, collectively, to suspend the EES until at least September.”
| Destination | EES Enforcement Status | Impact on UK Tourists |
|---|---|---|
| Spain | Active enforcement with limited flexibility | Longer queues expected; peak holiday weekend |
| Greece | Indicated no additional biometric checks on UK nationals | Minimal delays for UK tourists |
| Portugal | Active enforcement | Potential delays; advised to allow extra time |
| Italy | Active enforcement | Moderate delays reported |
| Turkey | Active enforcement | Similar to other EU states |
Key Takeaways for Travellers
- Plan extra time: Arrive at the airport at least three hours before your flight to accommodate potential EES delays.
- Check destination rules: Greece has opted out of biometric checks for UK nationals; other countries may vary.
- Stay updated: Follow official travel advice from Abta and your airline for real-time queue information.
- Contact your MP: If you experience severe disruption, report it to your local representative to support the call for suspension.
FAQ
What is the EES border control system?
The EES is an EU automated system that registers non-EU citizens entering and exiting the Schengen Area. It captures personal data, fingerprints, and facial images to enhance border security.
Why is Andy Burnham being urged to lobby EU leaders?
Political figures like Calum Miller believe Burnham, as a prominent UK leader, can directly persuade EU states to suspend the EES temporarily to prevent widespread holiday disruptions.
Is the EES enforced in all EU countries?
While technically in force across the EU, some countries like Greece have indicated they will not impose additional biometric checks on UK nationals during peak travel periods.
The travel association Abta reported that Spain is the top destination this weekend, with strong demand for Greece, Portugal, Italy, and Turkey. Mark Tanzer, Abta's chief executive, advised passengers to allow plenty of time for their journeys, noting that for many, this will be their first experience of the EES.
As the summer holiday season intensifies, the call to suspend the EES grows louder. Whether Burnham succeeds in convincing EU leaders remains to be seen, but for now, travellers should prepare for delays and stay informed about the latest border procedures.
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