UK government releases draft proposals for new border controls

The UK government, in collaboration with the governments of Scotland and Wales, released its plan on 5 April to strengthen our borders against biosecurity threats and meat smuggling. The draft Border Target Operating Model sets out a roadmap for realizing the goal of the Border Strategy 2025 to create the most efficient border in the world.

The project was developed after extensive interaction with the Border Patrol and businesses across the UK. The border transformation is underpinned by over £1bn of investment to improve how government systems and technology support the movement of goods and people across the border.

The proposed new model will prevent delays at the border by reducing the need for physical checks on many types of goods and ensuring that checks are carried out away from ports where necessary to ensure free movement of traffic.

Target operating model proposals are applicable to imports from all countries. These controls will protect the environment, ensure the safety of imported food and stop criminal activity before it can harm British communities.