Brits heading to France warned of travel chaos

British border officials will introduce a new tighter system of passport checks on April 8th that will see every person’s identity scrutinized.

Ferry operators P&O say the new measures could double the amount of time it takes them to clear a car for boarding, especially if there are numerous passengers in the vehicle and it has tinted windows.

The government fears the new measures could lead even lead to “public order problems” on the roads once the checks start.

Home Secretary Theresa May told the Commons home affairs select committee last month that “contingency measures are in place if there are public order problems”.

Shipping authorities in Dover have been warned that queues into the Channel’s busiest port, could stretch back 8 kilometres.

Travellers are advised to arrive at the ports early and fill in any required documents in advance, to save time at the check in process.