The impending summer travel season in the UK is shaping up to be a logistical nightmare, with the potential for dire consequences. The EU's Entry/Exit System (EES), a new border control measure, has sparked concerns over its feasibility and potential impact on British tourists.
The EES Conundrum
The EES, a system requiring tourists to provide fingerprints and photographs, has faced technical challenges. French kiosks and tablets have struggled to connect to the EU's central database, causing delays and frustration. British passengers, in particular, face additional hurdles as they must supply extra details to create an 'EES profile', further slowing down the process.
Human Cost of Border Checks
What makes this situation particularly worrying is the potential human cost. Sir Roger Gale, MP for Herne Bay and Sandwich, has warned that the 12-hour queues predicted for the Port of Dover could lead to fatalities. Elderly individuals, children, and pets trapped in such conditions, with limited access to basic necessities, pose a serious health risk. The inability of emergency services to navigate through gridlocked traffic only exacerbates the problem.
A Tale of Two Perspectives
While Sir Roger's concerns are valid, the Transport Secretary, Heidi Alexander, has dismissed them as 'scaremongering'. She highlights the extensive preparations that have been underway for months. However, the reality on the ground, as evidenced by the recent May Bank Holiday queues, suggests that the system is not yet ready for prime time.
Operation Brock: A No-Deal Remnant
In response to the anticipated chaos, Operation Brock, a traffic system originally designed for a no-deal Brexit scenario, will be activated on the M20 this week. This measure creates a dedicated lane for lorries heading to Europe, while other traffic must slow down. Additional measures include overflow areas, extra marshals, and amenities for drivers. Despite these preparations, the potential for severe congestion remains a concern.
Deeper Implications
The EES debacle raises broader questions about the EU's approach to border control and its impact on member states. The technical challenges and the potential human cost highlight the need for a more nuanced and flexible system. It also underscores the ongoing challenges of Brexit and the need for better coordination between the UK and the EU.
Conclusion
As the summer travel season approaches, the UK finds itself in a precarious situation. The EES, while well-intentioned, has the potential to cause significant disruption and, in the worst-case scenario, loss of life. The situation serves as a reminder of the complex realities of border control and the need for thoughtful, human-centric solutions. The coming weeks will be a test of the system's resilience and the ability of authorities to manage the potential fallout.
