Travelers entering the UK next week are being warned to expect delays at border control, as a result of a planned strike by Border Force officials.
The Public and Commercial Services union will be walking out next Wednesday in a dispute over pay. The stoppage is set to last through Thursday morning and will affect all international arrivals at UK air and maritime ports, and those arriving from Calais, Dunkirk and Coquelles in France.
The government has issued a statement urging travelers to prepare for longer wait times at the border during the proposed industrial action. It is recommended that those travelling into the UK during this period plan ahead and allow extra time at check-in to avoid delays or disruption. Furthermore, they have advised travelers to check their airline’s website for more information on their flight status before departing for the airport.
The strike will affect thousands of people across the country, with London Heathrow Airport likely to experience some of the longest queues due to its high volume of international passengers. This could have further implications for domestic flights, with airlines potentially facing staffing shortages due to staff unable to make it through border control in time for their shifts.
The government has urged both sides in this dispute to come together and agree an amicable resolution so that there is no disruption for passengers or businesses affected by these strikes.
