PCS union announced new strike action during February half term. How will this affect travel?

The upcoming Border Force strike is taking place from 17 February to 20 February 2023 and will affect those travelling in and out of the UK.

What is this strike about?

The Public and Commercial Services (PCS) union, a UK trade union representing over 200,000 members working in various government departments and public-sector organisations, has announced a new plan for industrial action. The strike is being called in response to an ongoing dispute between the union and the UK government over pay and pensions (amongst other things). 

Who is affected?

The proposed strike action will mainly affect those crossing the UK border through the seaports of Calais, Dunkirk and the Coquelles Channel Tunnel terminal. However, travellers should also expect delays at other UK border control points.

Advice for those travelling into the UK

If you are planning to travel to the UK between 17 February and 20 February 2023, here are some tips to help you navigate through a strike:

1. Check your carrier website regularly.
2. Use eGates where possible.
3. Allow extra time to reach your destination.
4. Consider purchasing travel insurance that covers strikes and other unexpected events.

The UK government has stated that it will attempt to minimise the impact of the strike on the general public.

How Gherson can assist

Gherson’s Immigration Team are highly experienced in advising on UK visa matters. If you have any questions arising from this blog, please do not hesitate to contact us for advice, send us an e-mail, or, alternatively, follow us on Twitter, Facebook, or LinkedIn to stay-up-to-date.

The information in this blog is for general information purposes only and does not purport to be comprehensive or to provide legal advice. Whilst every effort is made to ensure the information and law is current as of the date of publication it should be stressed that, due to the passage of time, this does not necessarily reflect the present legal position. Gherson accepts no responsibility for loss which may arise from accessing or reliance on information contained in this blog. For formal advice on the current law please do not hesitate to contact Gherson. Legal advice is only provided pursuant to a written agreement, identified as such, and signed by the client and by or on behalf of Gherson.

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