French police have temporarily suspended extra EU border checks at the Port of Dover as thousands of holidaymakers face long delays in hot weather. Waiting times of more than two hours were reported at the Kent terminal for cross-Channel ferries to France.
The EU’s entry-exit system (EES), which replaces passport stamps with digital registration, became fully operational last month. The port described Saturday as the “first peak period” since the new procedures were introduced, calling the situation “challenging”.
In a post on X, the port said: “We are pleased that Police Aux Frontières (PAF) have responded positively by invoking the article 9 clause of the EES regulations.” This allows for checks to be temporarily relaxed. “While conventional border checks will still be undertaken, this will now enable PAF to significantly reduce the border processing time,” the port added.
The UK recorded its hottest day of the year so far on Saturday, with 30.5°C in Kent. Images showed long queues of cars at the terminal, a popular route for British tourists, especially at the start of half-term holidays. The port advised drivers to stay in their cars and treat staff with “kindness and respect”.
EasyJet has called on EU countries to drop the new rules over concerns of lengthy delays. The European Commission said the system was designed to make borders more secure and efficient. Temperatures are forecast to rise further, with amber heat health alerts in place until Wednesday.
