Border Force fast-tracks medical kit for NHS frontline fight
Border Force is cracking down to speed up deliveries of vital medical equipment to the NHS. A fresh priority system means shipments flagged by the NHS get the green light for rapid processing, slashing delays at the border.
New process slashes wait times
From the start of April, Border Force officers have been on high alert for flagged shipments. This means critical medical gear rolls through security checks faster — without cutting corners on safety.
Home Secretary Priti Patel said: “I will do whatever necessary to help the national effort to tackle this virus, that is why Border Force are prioritising medical equipment so that it can enter the UK as soon as possible.”
“This will ensure that the NHS and frontline workers can get the equipment they need as quickly as possible so they can continue saving lives and fighting the virus.
Tax waivers speed up supplies
In a boost to NHS support, the Treasury announced last week it’s scrapping import taxes on crucial coronavirus-fighting equipment. That includes protective gear, tests, and ventilators — cutting red tape and getting supplies to hospitals quicker.
Financial Secretary Jesse Norman added: “We have already waived import taxes on crucial medical equipment coming to the UK, such as protective gear, tests and ventilators. Today’s announcement will further support the NHS, so that frontline workers get the supplies they need to save lives.”
Security remains top priority
Border Force continues rigorous checks to stop illegal immigration, banned items, and fraud, even while fast-tracking medical shipments. This is one part of wider plans to keep the UK safe while backing the NHS through the crisis.
Frontline workers can rest easy knowing that vital medical kit will reach them quicker thanks to Border Force’s new fast-track system – one more weapon in the fight against coronavirus.
