MPs debate border checks over the summer of 2011

Secretary of State for the Home Department, Theresa May, responded during the debate on behalf of the Government. Watch and read the debate on Parliament TV and in Commons Hansard.

• Parliament TV: Debate on border checks summer 2011
• Commons Hansard: Debate on border checks summer 2011
• Topics: Asylum, immigration and nationality

UK border force

The UK border force is an operational division of the UK Border Agency. Border force activities include verifying the immigration status of passengers arriving and departing the UK; checking baggage, vehicles and cargo for illicit goods; and searching for illegal immigrants.

The Opposition debate follows allegations that security checks were not being implemented properly and that border controls had been relaxed without ministerial approval over the summer of 2011.

The Home Secretary made a Ministerial statement in the House of Commons on Monday 7 November and announced three inquiries into the allegations. It is expected that the inquries will report by the end of January 2012.

• Commons news: UK border force statement

The Home Secretary gave oral evidence to the Home Affairs Select Committee on Tuesday 7 November regarding the UK Border Agency.

• Home Affairs Select Committee: Evidence session with Home Secretary, Theresa May 

Further information on the Home Office, the UK Border Agency and the UK border force can be found on the Home Office and UK Border Agency websites.

• Home Office (external website)
• UK Border Agency (external website)

Opposition Day debates

Opposition days are days allocated in the House of Commons in each session for the discussion of subjects chosen by the Opposition. The Opposition generally uses them to raise questions of policy and administration.

Debates are an opportunity for MPs to discuss government policy, proposed new laws and current issues. It allows MPs to voice the concerns and interests of their constituents.

• About Parliament: Main business (debates)