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10/03/2006
Eye-scanning technology extended at Heathrow
The use of eye-scanning technology is being extended at Heathrow Airport in order to speed up immigration checks.
UK citizens and some foreign travellers who have leave to remain in Britain will be able to use the Iris Recognition Immigration System (IRIS) at Terminal I from today, enabling them to enter the UK without queuing to see an immigration officer at passport control.
Instead, passengers who are signed up to the scheme will be able to walk up to an automated barrier, look into a camera and enter the UK if the system recognises them.
The biometric technology, which was introduced at Terminal 2 and 4 at Heathrow in June 2005, works by photographing a passenger's iris patterns and storing the data in a database, together with their passport details. Only those individuals who have had their details authenticated by an immigration officer are able to use the technology. As no two iris patterns are alike, the system will quickly and securely recognise each registered individual when they look into the camera.
A one-off enrolment for IRIS takes around 5 minutes and is free. Registration is conducted by immigration staff in the departures area of the airport.
Speaking at the launch, Immigration Minister Tony McNulty said: "With over 97 million people entering the UK in 2005, it is important that the UK remains at the forefront of the latest technology in immigration controls and the government's commitment to the project.
"Secure and effective border controls are vital to safeguard our citizens against terrorism, serious and organised crime and illegal immigration, while at the same time facilitating entry for legitimate travellers."
IRIS will be installed at Gatwick North and South, Heathrow Terminal 3, Stansted, Birmingham and Manchester Terminals 1 and 2 during 2006.
The project was temporarily shut down following the London bomb attacks last July, but re-opened on January 3.
(KMcA/GB)
UK citizens and some foreign travellers who have leave to remain in Britain will be able to use the Iris Recognition Immigration System (IRIS) at Terminal I from today, enabling them to enter the UK without queuing to see an immigration officer at passport control.
Instead, passengers who are signed up to the scheme will be able to walk up to an automated barrier, look into a camera and enter the UK if the system recognises them.
The biometric technology, which was introduced at Terminal 2 and 4 at Heathrow in June 2005, works by photographing a passenger's iris patterns and storing the data in a database, together with their passport details. Only those individuals who have had their details authenticated by an immigration officer are able to use the technology. As no two iris patterns are alike, the system will quickly and securely recognise each registered individual when they look into the camera.
A one-off enrolment for IRIS takes around 5 minutes and is free. Registration is conducted by immigration staff in the departures area of the airport.
Speaking at the launch, Immigration Minister Tony McNulty said: "With over 97 million people entering the UK in 2005, it is important that the UK remains at the forefront of the latest technology in immigration controls and the government's commitment to the project.
"Secure and effective border controls are vital to safeguard our citizens against terrorism, serious and organised crime and illegal immigration, while at the same time facilitating entry for legitimate travellers."
IRIS will be installed at Gatwick North and South, Heathrow Terminal 3, Stansted, Birmingham and Manchester Terminals 1 and 2 during 2006.
The project was temporarily shut down following the London bomb attacks last July, but re-opened on January 3.
(KMcA/GB)
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13 April 2006
Iris recognition for travellers at Manchester Airport
Technology to make passage through immigration control faster and simpler has been introduced at Manchester Airport. The Iris Recognition Immigration System, which allows registered passengers to enter the UK without queuing to see immigration officer, has been introduced at Terminal 1 at the airport.
Iris recognition for travellers at Manchester Airport
Technology to make passage through immigration control faster and simpler has been introduced at Manchester Airport. The Iris Recognition Immigration System, which allows registered passengers to enter the UK without queuing to see immigration officer, has been introduced at Terminal 1 at the airport.
15 June 2004
UK airport security boosted by hi-tech eye-scanner
A number of UK airports are set to receive a hi-tech iris recognition system which is designed to increase security as well as speed up the operation of immigration controls.
UK airport security boosted by hi-tech eye-scanner
A number of UK airports are set to receive a hi-tech iris recognition system which is designed to increase security as well as speed up the operation of immigration controls.
15 April 2004
Immigration controls extended to include Belgian Eurostar
An agreement with Belgian authorities to extend full powers to British immigration officials operating at the Belgian Eurostar terminal was expected to be finalised today.
Immigration controls extended to include Belgian Eurostar
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Cardiff Clamp-Down On 'Illegal' Workers
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Cardiff Clamp-Down On 'Illegal' Workers
Three people have been arrested during a clampdown on illegal workers in Cardiff. Immigration Minister Mark Harper was present at a series of enforcement raids in Cardiff to witness first hand the work being done to apprehend those working and living in the UK illegally.
15 May 2013
65th Person Arrested In Operation Elveden
Met detectives investigating suspected corruption have arrested a former immigration centre employee. Officers from Operation Elveden arrested the 40-year-old man at his home in Slough, Berkshire, around 06:00 this morning (Wednesday). According to the BBC he is being held on suspicion of corruption and misconduct in public office.
65th Person Arrested In Operation Elveden
Met detectives investigating suspected corruption have arrested a former immigration centre employee. Officers from Operation Elveden arrested the 40-year-old man at his home in Slough, Berkshire, around 06:00 this morning (Wednesday). According to the BBC he is being held on suspicion of corruption and misconduct in public office.
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A showery start with outbreaks most frequent north of Lough Neagh and through the morning, before dwindling during the afternoon as the northwest breezes ease and brighter spells of weak sunshine prosper. Maximum temperature 8 °C.Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.
