Border Force staff rack up £18,000 hotel bill

Taxpayers footed an £18,000 bill covering the costs of three government officials who stayed at a luxury hotel while working on a Caribbean island.

Border Force staff spent 64 nights between them at the Sugar Ridge on Antigua – a £37 million resort that boasts an infinity pool, a gourmet restaurant and stunning views.

The team made the trip in early 2016 to advise local authorities on drug trafficking, but the details have only emerged following a Freedom of Information request.

Documents showed the bill for accommodation came to £12,126 while £4,144 went on subsistence, £1,310 on car hire and £994 on flights.

Antiguan customs authorities asked the Border Force team to “help them build the capacity and capability” at the country’s main airport, VC Bird.

The airport is a Caribbean transport hub.