Rich travellers to be given priority at Heathrow border control

PA

New plans mean that there could be a quick and effective way to beat the border control queues at Heathrow - provided that you're a VIP.

The Daily Mail reports that border officials have revealed plans for fast-track passport lanes, which guarantee rich, important travelers 'priority treatment'.

This means that travelers who are considered to be of 'high value' to the airline or the British economy would be allowed through immigration ahead of other passengers.

Brian Moore, the departing head of the UK Border Force, told the Commons home affairs committee that the move is intended to signal that Britain is "open for business".

If the plans get the go-ahead, these fast-track lanes will run alongside Heathrow's existing VIP service, which allows up to six passengers to jump lengthy queues as part of a £1,800 service.

The Guardian reports that it's not yet clear how the 'value' of passengers would be determined, but it's likely that regular business class passengers would enjoy preferential treatment. Other wealthy individuals and their families could also be nominated by British embassies, consulates and large companies.

According to Mr Moore, similar fast-track schemes are already in operation in other countries, with some airlines offering priority passport checks to all first-class passengers.

However, the plans are unlikely to impress most travelers - especially those who were forced to endure two-hour queues earlier this year.

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