Sagem wins Heathrow biometrics contract
A contract for iris recognition equipment, worth £2.8 million, has gone to French defense and security equipment supplier Sagem
Two units will be installed at Heathrow Airport's new Terminal 5, and more may be installed at other entry points, the Home Office said.
By the end of 2007 frontline staff at all major ports will be able to check biometric data in travel documents against the passenger presenting the document. Home Secretary Jacqui Smith said, "We are creating a new frontline (e-Borders) with police-like powers focused on securing the UK's borders against terrorism, illegal immigration and organized crime."
The cost of passports has more than doubled over the last two years. The Home Office said no new money will be raised to implement the e-Borders system. "Our new visa charging arrangements give us the financial flexibility to make these commitments," the agency said.
E-Borders will help give effect to Prime Minister Gordon Brown's national security strategy announced last week. The PM said all visa applicants will need biometric visas within nine months. Immigrants from high-risk countries already need biometric visas. HS Daily Wire
