£705 million investment for GB-EU border

The government has announced a post-Brexit £705 million funding package for border infrastructure, jobs and technology.

The new funding will include up to £470 million to build the port and inland infrastructure needed to ensure compliance with new customs procedures and controls after the end of the transition period, and take the UK’s border facilities to the next level. It also includes a significant £235 million investment in staffing and IT systems, with £10 million set aside to recruit approximately 500 more Border Force personnel and £20 million for new equipment so they can continue to keep our country safe and secure.

Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster Michael Gove said: “We are taking back control of our borders, and leaving the single market and the customs union at the end of this year bringing both changes and significant opportunities for which we all need to prepare.That is why we are announcing this major package of investment today.

“With or without further agreement with the EU, this £705 million will ensure that the necessary infrastructure, tech and border personnel are in place so that our traders and the border industry are able to manage the changes and seize the opportunities as we lay the foundations for the world’s most effective and secure border.”