BRITAIN TAKES BACK BORDER CONTROL
No deal threat as we tell Brussels: It’s happening ‘with or without the EU’
BRITAIN will seize back control of its borders by the end of the year whatever the outcome of Brexit talks, the Government vowed last night.
It is investing hundreds of millions in beefing up border controls in a clear indication that the country will be ready for a “no-deal” if necessary.
It comes as Home Secretary Priti Patel prepares to unveil a points-based immigration system, designed to attract the brightest and best to the UK. In a further bold move, the Sunday Express has learned that Boris Johnson will axe Chinese
tech company Huawei as a supplier for the new 5G network at a National Security Council meeting on Tuesday. A review into Chinese involvement in the existing 3G and 4G networks could also be examined.
The mobile phone giant is seen as being far too close to China’s government, raising global concerns about security.
With the end of the EU transition period looming, the investment in border infrastructure, jobs and technology will include £470million on new control posts and £235million on IT.
There will also be more than £100million to develop HMRC systems to reduce the burden on traders, alongside additional investment in technology to ensure that new controls can be fully implemented without holdups in ports. Another £15million will be spent on data systems to enhance border management and flow.
The aim is to have the world’s most effective border by 2025.
This package is on top of the £84million already given in grants to ensure there is sufficient capacity in the customs intermediary sector, which includes brokers and freight forwarders.
The Government says it is “taking exceptional action” to build border infrastructure inland when there is no space at ports. It has also been “intensively engaging” with industry to ensure new processes and infrastructure can “capitalise on opportunities at the end of the transition period”.
Speaking ahead of the announcement, Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster Michael Gove, who is co-ordinating Brexit strategy, stressed the package will help prepare for a no-deal. He said:
“We are taking back control of our borders and leaving the Single Market and the Customs Union at the end of this year – bringing both changes and significant opportunities for which we all need to prepare.
“That is why we are announcing this major package of investment. With or without further agreement with the EU, this £705million will ensure that the necessary infrastructure, tech and border personnel are in place so our traders and the border industry are able to seize the opportunities as we lay the foundations for the world’s most secure border.”
His comments came as four migrants were rescued after their boat capsized in the Channel yesterday. They were among 21 in at least three boats who were returned to France. Mr Gove’s message is also a warning to Brussels and EU chief negotiator Michel Barnier that we are serious about walking away from talks if they continue to insist the UK signs up to their “level playing field” measures.
The EU is also demanding access to our fishing grounds.
David Frost, the UK’S chief negotiator, said last month that if major progress is not completed by the end of July, talks will end.
Meanwhile, the Home Secretary unveils details of her immigration system overhaul tomorrow.
Ms Patel believes the new Global Talent Scheme will attract the brightest and best, and is particularly aimed at highly skilled scientists and researchers.
She said: “The British people voted to take back control of our borders and introduce a new points-based immigration system. Now we are free to unleash this country’s full potential and implement the changes we need to restore trust in the immigration system and deliver a new fairer, firmer, skills-led system from January 1, 2021.
“Britain is open for business and ready to welcome the best and brightest global talent.”
Ms Patel is also likely to address the controversial issue of catering for non-british health workers.
Labour hinted it will oppose the new system. Shadow Home Secretary Nick Thomas-symonds said: “There are real concerns it will cause major problems for our NHS and our care sector.”
Meanwhile, Whitehall sources have told the Sunday Express that the decision to allow Huawei to build part of Britain’s 5G IT network will be reversed at the National Security Council meting on Tuesday.
Parliament’s Intelligence and Security Committee is also due to begin sitting tomorrow and it is understood it would hold an inquiry into Chinese government espionage, including fears about Huawei. It is also believed Chinese involvement in 4G and 3G networks will be looked at.
Donald Trump has made it clear that a US/UK post-brexit trade deal could be jeopardised if Huawei is not excluded from 5G – and that Britain could even face sanctions.