MPs right to call out flawed Entry Exit System

EES raised in Parliamentary debate - MPs right to call out flawed system says RHA

Commenting after a debate on the European Entry and Exit System (EES) in Parliament this week, RHA Trade Policy Lead, Alastair Gunn said:

"We are pleased MPs have shone a light on how the Entry/Exit System is unfit for purpose. Professional coach, van and haulage drivers are some of those most affected by its failings, in addition to those tourists who have faced unacceptable queues at ports and airports.

"Inconsistent use of biometric systems is causing significant concern to hauliers worried about their livelihoods, and delays - especially at Calais - are creating serious problems for coach companies taking British tourists in and out of the EU."

Since EES became fully operational in April, stricter enforcement of the Schengen 90/180 day rule has left professional drivers rapidly running out of days for international work - limiting the jobs operators can take on, pushing up costs and weakening supply chain resilience.

Commenting further, Alastair added:

"Restricting access for British drivers supporting European supply chains and tourism does nothing to help the UK-EU trade relationship. A professional driver exemption would address these issues.

"It was clear from the debate in Parliament that the full impact EES is having on the coach and haulage sectors is not yet properly understood in Government. We look forward to engaging with new Ministers in the coming weeks to help close that gap."


ENDS

Notes to Editor:

Debate via Hansard: https://hansard.parliament.uk/Commons/2026-07-08/debates/EEC5E8A2-3515-4332-BF69-ED18492447BC/EuropeanEntryAndExitSystem#contribution-B7A8F0AB-56B0-4C72-B250-F727F2DAC3A6