Extra EU border checks suspended at Dover as travellers face delays in heat

French border police have temporarily suspended enhanced EU checks at the Port of Dover after hot weather contributed to queues exceeding two hours [1]. The suspension invokes a clause in the new Entry/Exit System (EES) regulations during the port's first major peak period [1]. The Port of Dover described the situation as "challenging" and stated the move by Police Aux Frontières (PAF) to invoke Article 9 of the EES rules would "significantly reduce the border processing time" [1]. The port advised drivers to stay in their cars and treat staff with "kindness and respect" [1]. Passengers missing their ferry due to delays will be accommodated on the next available crossing [1]. The disruption comes as the UK experienced its hottest day of the year so far, with temperatures in Kent reaching 30.5C [1]. The EES, which became fully operational last month, replaces passport stamps with digital registration for non-EU travelers entering the Schengen area [1]. EasyJet CEO Kenton Jarvis has expressed concern the additional checks could deter holidaymakers [1]. Dover is a critical link across the English Channel, the busiest shipping area in the world [5]. The nearby Channel Tunnel, a 50.46-kilometre railway link opened in 1994, provides the only other fixed connection between Great Britain and the European mainland [2]. In 2017, the Port of Dover handled 2.2 million cars, compared to 2.6 million cars transported via the Channel Tunnel's LeShuttle service [2]. The European Commission states the EES is designed to strengthen border security and efficiency [1]. However, the system's rollout coincides with a period of extreme heat in the UK, with the Met Office issuing amber health alerts warning of potential travel delays and risks to life [1].