RHA calls for reform of rules on ‘clandestine entrants’
The Road Haulage Association (RHA) has urged the government to introduce reforms to the penalty scheme applied when so-called clandestine entrants are found on vehicles coming into the UK, which it claims is unfairly penalising some transport operators and drivers.
The organisation says it wrote to the independent chief inspector for borders and immigration in September as part of a review of the scheme, but is still waiting to hear of any public response to the investigation.
The RHA is calling for the civil penalty scheme to be reviewed as well as entry checklists, “in line with the evolving illegal immigration situation to ensure they are fit for purpose”. This, it says, should account for the advanced methods used by organised crime gangs to conceal migrants entering vehicles.
It also urged the government to introduce improved training for Border Force officials in the area of vehicle security, to help bolster understanding of the latest techniques deployed by clandestine entrants; and called for “a clear declaration that drivers are not expected to personally deal with potential clandestine entrants on safety grounds”, as well as additional guidance and publicity on the steps drivers should take in such circumstances.
In addition, it is requesting clearer avenues through which drivers can seek assistance from both UK border officials and the French authorities, to ensure that no driver genuinely seeking help in dealing with clandestine entrants is punished.
“There’s widespread concern that the clandestine entrant civil penalty scheme isn’t wholly effective with operators being punished despite making all reasonable efforts to secure their vehicles,” said Richard Smith, managing director at the RHA.
“We’ve heard numerous examples of this from our members and across the industry.
“We acknowledge that illegal entry into the UK continues to be a big issue for government – boat crossings across the Channel makes the headlines but the scale and impact of people breaking into vehicles shouldn’t be underestimated.
“We recognise the role our industry plays in keeping the border secure, and support all reasonable measures to deter clandestine entrants as well as penalise those drivers and operators who aren’t taking the necessary steps to secure their vehicles.
“However, as tactics and techniques for hiding on vehicles evolve, it is vital the scheme also evolves so operators and drivers are not unfairly punished.”
Mr Smith added that the RHA would continue to work on behalf of its members with the Home Office and Border Force on improving border security.
