The Port of Dover has attacked the French authorities for “woefully inadequate” border control staffing which is ruining the summer getaway for thousands of families. A “critical incident” has been declared by the Kent port due to six-hour queues, with tourists urged to consider staying away.
It is one of the busiest periods for foreign travel from the UK as most schools in England and Wales break up for summer this week. Passengers embarking on cross-Channel sailings from Dover must pass through French border checks before they can board a ferry.
The port said in a statement that it has increased the number of border control booths by 50% and shared traffic volume forecasts “in granular detail” with the French authorities. It went on: “Regrettably, the PAF (police aux frontieres) resource has been insufficient and has fallen far short of what is required to ensure a smooth first weekend of the peak summer getaway period.”
