Oral Answers to Questions

Peter Grant Excerpts

Thursday 23rd February 2017 Commons Chamber

[Patrick Grady (Glasgow North) (SNP)]

7. What assessment he has made of the potential effect of the UK leaving the EU on inbound passengers at airports and ports across the UK.

[Peter Grant (Glenrothes) (SNP)]

9. What assessment he has made of the potential effect of the UK leaving the EU on inbound passengers at airports and ports across the UK.

[Chris Law (Dundee West) (SNP)]

10. What assessment he has made of the potential effect of the UK leaving the EU on inbound passengers at airports and ports across the UK.

--- Later in debate ---

[Chris Grayling]

It is already the case that when an EU citizen arrives in this country, they have to show their passport. I do not envisage that changing in the future.

[Peter Grant]

The reality is that since 2011 this Government have cut the UK Border Force budget by 15%, despite it having to cope with an 11% increase in passenger numbers over the same period. That is already having an impact on passengers. What discussions has the Secretary of State had with the Home Secretary to make sure that neither passengers nor border security are prejudiced or compromised after Brexit?

[Chris Grayling]

The hon. Gentleman will know that in recent years we have significantly increased automation at airports, with e-gates for passports, which provides a good way of balancing the need for effective border controls and the ability to live within our means.