The UK is not prepared to implement the EU’s new biometric border control system, according to a new report from the National Audit Office (NAO).
The report, which was published on Thursday, found that the UK Border Force is facing a number of challenges in implementing the Entry/Exit System (EES), which is due to become operational in November 2022.
These challenges include a lack of resources, a shortage of trained staff, and a lack of clarity over the legal framework for the EES.
The report also found that the UK Border Force is not yet fully compliant with the EU’s biometric data standards.
The EES is a new EU-wide border control system that will require all non-EU nationals to have their fingerprints and facial images taken when they enter and leave the Schengen area.
The system is designed to improve security and reduce fraud by preventing criminals and terrorists from entering the EU illegally.
The UK is required to implement the EES because it is part of the Common Travel Area with Ireland.
The NAO report warned that the UK’s failure to implement the EES could lead to significant operational and financial risks.
The report recommended that the UK Border Force take urgent action to address the challenges it is facing.
The UK Border Force said it was working closely with the EU to implement the EES.
A spokesperson said: We are committed to meeting the deadline and are confident that we will be ready for the implementation of the EES.
However, the NAO report raised concerns about the UK Border Force’s ability to meet the deadline.
The report found that the UK Border Force is facing a number of challenges in implementing the EES, including a lack of resources, a shortage of trained staff, and a lack of clarity over the legal framework for the EES.
The report also found that the UK Border Force is not yet fully compliant with the EU’s biometric data standards.
The NAO report warned that the UK’s failure to implement the EES could lead to significant operational and financial risks.
The UK Border Force said it was working closely with the EU to implement the EES.
A spokesperson said: We are committed to meeting the deadline and are confident that we will be ready for the implementation of the EES.
Kind regards
E. Thompson