Port responds to delay on import border checks

Responding to the government’s announcement that the UK will delay import border checks on EU goods into Great Britain, Mike Sellers, port director said:

“This is welcome news for not only the port, but UK business and consumers.

“We will now be in a strong position to manage effective checks on imports when they come into force January next year.

“Our thanks go to our local MPs, and ministers who have listened to our concerns about the timescale, which we raised when the border operating model was announced. Creating a Border Control Post is a complex build because it also involves having to accommodate a bio-secure environment. This postponement is a huge relief and we appreciate government reviewing the situation.

“While discussions remain open with regards to further funding support, we are pleased we can start planning for the future with a realistic programme of works.”

Cllr Gerald Vernon-Jackson, Leader of Portsmouth City Council, added: “We are pleased government has listened to our concerns and delayed the implementation of physical checks on imports until next year.

“As a council we are facing significant pressures. Everyone has been trying to manage both the impact of the pandemic and also the effects of Brexit. This announcement now allows us to focus on recovery, while also building the border control post (BCP) in a realistic timeframe.

“We welcome the support from our local MPs who have helped raise the issue with government and hope to work further on the shortfall that remains regarding funding the full BCP.”