THE country’s immigration minister has promised to bolster port defences, following a visit to city’s docks.

Caroline Nokes, MP for Romsey and Southampton North, confirmed that 300 extra border force officers will be deployed at ports across the country, including Southampton, before the end of the year.

An additional 600 will also be deployed by March 29 - the day the UK officially leaves the European Union (EU), to prevent border issues in the case of a ‘no deal’ Brexit deal.

The minister also said that she is “absolutely determined” to make sure port forces have “enough resources” to be able to continue guarding the ports.

“[Before] the new year there will be an additional 300 staff nationwide and their locations will be assessed on an operational need,” she added.

“These staffing plans are well on track but I am very concious that it is not just about the numbers.

“We need to make sure we are ready for a deal or a no deal Brexit.”

 

She added: “Southampton Port is in really good shape for Brexit. Most of the imports here are from outside the EU anyway.

The minister then explained to the Daily Echo that as part of the negotiations, parliament have been “very keen” to make sure the ports are protected.

“Most importantly we need a deal that will be in the interest of the UK and I think the deal we have on the table is that,” she said.

During her visit, the minister spoke to several port employees, including current border force staff, about their work intercepting illicit goods entering the UK

But, despite fears of what a ‘no deal’ Brexit could mean for the ports, a spokesperson from DP World Southampton said: “We are preparing for Brexit, but we expect minimal disruption to our operations.

“We are ensuring that we have enough supply of European parts and we are in touch with Border Force and Port Health to ensure we have the appropriate resources for different scenarios.”

Mrs Nokes’ visit on Friday came five days of debate in the House of Commons as Prime Minister Theresa May tries to push through her Brexit divorce plan.