Question to the Home Office:

To ask Her Majesty's Government what technological innovations they have so far developed, or are developing, to deal with new post-Brexit demands for (1) the management of borders with EU Member States, and (2) customs and tariff arrangements with EU Member States.

Over the last two years, Border Force has invested £108m in new technology and capability and has committed a further £71m in 2017-18. New border systems will improve capabilities at all interception points. improving Border Force’s ability to manage demand and maintain and enhance security.Future customs controls required following EU exit will depend on the outcome of the negotiations. All options are being considered. In the unlikely event that an agreement with the EU is not reached, the Government will work to ensure that trade between the UK and the EU is as frictionless as possible.

HMRC’s current Customs Handling of Import and Export Freight (CHIEF) system is due be replaced by the Customs Declaration Service (CDS). HMRC remains on target to deliver CDS by January 2019 and is actively managing delivery plans in partnership with stakeholders, including industry representatives.