Former Inspector Warns of Security Risk as Border Force Fails to Inspect Private Jets at London City Airport

David Neal, the former independent chief inspector of borders and immigration, raised alarm today over Border Force’s failure to inspect private jets, highlighting a significant security risk. He expressed apprehension that the absence of thorough security checks for “high-risk” aircraft landing at London City airport poses a dangerous threat. Neal emphasized the potential replication of this issue at other airports handling private and chartered flights, known as ‘general aviation.’

Neal’s dismissal by Home Secretary James Cleverly last month has raised concerns about the continuity of oversight and inspection protocols. He emphasized that the delay in appointing his successor, expected to be up to nine months, would disrupt the watchdog’s inspection schedule, leaving critical security gaps unaddressed. Neal stressed the importance of addressing security vulnerabilities in general aviation but lamented the absence of personnel to undertake such assessments.

In his testimony before the Lords justice and home affairs committee, Neal reiterated the significance of his findings, citing legislation mandating the identification of border security deficiencies. He underscored the necessity of effectively communicating such failings to relevant authorities within the Home Office to prompt corrective actions. Neal emphasized the urgent need for reform within Border Force to enhance security measures and address systemic shortcomings.

Transparency and Accountability

The Home Office’s publication of 13 reports by Neal coinciding with the release of findings from an inquiry into Sarah Everard’s murder has sparked accusations of attempting to bury unfavorable news. These reports unveiled numerous failures within the nation’s borders and immigration system, raising questions about transparency and accountability within the government.

One of the key revelations from Neal’s reports was the inadequacy of security checks on high-risk general aviation arrivals. Despite the UK Border Force’s mandate to inspect 100 percent of such flights classified as high-risk, data provided to Neal indicated that only 21 percent of 687 flights were actually inspected at City airport last year. This discrepancy suggests a significant lapse in border security protocols, potentially allowing criminals, illegal immigrants, trafficking victims, and extremists to enter the UK unchecked.

Challenges and Restrictions

Neal faced restrictions on discussing the contents of his forthcoming report on City airport, slated for publication by mid-April. This limitation impedes transparency and inhibits public awareness of security vulnerabilities and necessary remedial actions. The lack of clarity surrounding the report’s findings underscores broader challenges in ensuring accountability and oversight within governmental agencies responsible for national security.

In conclusion, Neal’s testimony highlights critical deficiencies in border security oversight and the urgent need for reform within Border Force. The delayed appointment of his successor and restrictions on the disclosure of investigative findings underscore broader concerns about transparency, accountability, and the effectiveness of security measures in safeguarding the nation against threats posed by illicit aviation activities.

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