Brexit Britain needs 21st century borders

Whatever form Brexit might take, the Government has been clear about its intentions to take the country global: the Prime Minister has promised that post-Brexit Britain will be an outward-looking country, trading and engaging with countries from across the world.

But if Britain is to copy with the increase in trade and visitors (both of which are expected to double within the next thirty years), it will be necessary to revisit and revitalise the country’s border and customs infrastructure. The Home Office’s failure to meet its existing targets for clearing visitors (within 25 minutes for EEA passports, and 45 minutes for non-EEA visitors have been well-publicised) – how can the UK cope with higher traffic?

Then there are the additional challenges posed by Brexit: the realities of running an independent trade policy will mean additional procedures and administration for trade and customs. How can the country develop a comprehensive customs and border strategy which deal with this increased volume and in a way which is quicker, smarter and safer than existing systems?

With the support of Leidos, The Spectator hosted a roundtable lunch of experts and practitioners with knowledge of the UK border, to discuss how new technologies might play a role in delivering this vision – and the political practicalities of making this happen