Travel boost for Brits as roaming charges axed and speedy e-gates brought in | World | News
Brits traveling abroad will have faster access to airports with the opening of e-gates for the first time.
The move was described by trade secretary Peter Kyle as “the most significant services trade deal the UK has ever negotiated” and will also see data roaming charges reduced for business or leisure travellers.
This comes after trade deals were struck with the US, India, Gulf Cooperation Council, South Korea and the EU.
The government says the new deal signed by the UK and Switzerland will increase exports to the European country by £5.2bn a year “in the long term”. BBC reported.
Outgoing Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said: “Whether you’re growing your business or traveling for work, this agreement is about making life easier and creating more opportunities for people in the UK.
“This means British firms will find it easier to sell their expertise in one of our most important markets in Europe, supporting jobs and investment there.”
Transport Minister Heidi Alexander said she and European commissioner for sustainable transport and tourism, Apostolos Tzitzikostas, agreed to work together to ensure hassle-free travel during the summer months.
UK passport holders will be allowed to use e-gates at Zurich airport by the end of 2026, with Geneva and Basel airports joining later.
Chris Hayward, head of corporate policy for the City of London, said: “This is a gold standard trade deal for the UK’s greatest export successes: world-class services. The City of London and Switzerland have long enjoyed a strong partnership built on trust, expertise and global reach.
“This agreement shows what can be achieved when trade policy is built around the sectors in which the UK leads the world, and the benefits to UK businesses and the wider economy will be felt for decades to come.
“It is also hugely welcome news that UK citizens will soon have access to Swiss eGates, reducing friction and queues at the airport and giving business travelers more time to do business.
“This is both a personal priority and a priority for the City of London Corporation, and we are pleased with the progress being made.”
