Overview

The United Kingdom Borders Bill aims to enhance border security by creating a dedicated entry channel for citizens of the Commonwealth realms, redesignating the UK Border Agency as Her Majesty's Border Police with increased powers, and mandating the display of national symbols at all UK entry points.

Description

This bill introduces several key changes:

• Dedicated Entry Channel: Creates a faster entry channel at all UK airports, ports, and terminals specifically for citizens of the Commonwealth realms.
• National Symbol Display: Requires all UK entry points to prominently display a portrait of the reigning monarch, the Union Flag, and other recognized national symbols.
• Agency Renaming and Re-establishment: Renames the UK Border Agency as "Her Majesty's Border Police" and creates a new uniform for its frontline staff.
• Enhanced Border Police Powers: Grants the Secretary of State the power to issue orders modifying existing legislation to increase the powers of Her Majesty's Border Police. These orders must be approved by both Houses of Parliament.

Government Spending

The bill states that all expenditure incurred under the Act by the Secretary of State, and any increase in sums payable under other Acts attributable to this Act, will be paid from the UK government's budget. Specific figures are not provided in the bill text.

Groups Affected

Groups potentially affected by this bill include:

• Citizens of the Commonwealth realms: May experience faster entry into the UK.
• UK Border Force staff: Will see their agency renamed and potentially experience changes in uniform and powers.
• Travellers entering the UK: Will encounter changes to border entry procedures and visual displays at points of entry.
• Parliament: Will need to approve any orders modifying existing legislation to enhance the powers of Her Majesty's Border Police.

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