Freight drivers have been advised not to refuel or take rest stops near the French port of Calais while many are taking detours of around 100 miles due to the growing migrant crisis.
The news comes as the freight trade association (FTA) said it has met with immigration and security minister James Brokenshire as fears rise over disruption to trade routes. The organisation said it has also written to the mayor of Calais for support in lobbying French and British governments.
This week, French riot police were called to the port after reports of escalating tension as growing numbers of migrants attempt to board lorries bound for the UK.
The FTA claimed that some loads are being rejected by customers because of contamination when migrants enter the vehicles.
Delays caused by increased checks at the port’s terminal are causing huge queues, according to the FTA, while one importer said the same problem has been affecting Euro Tunnel logistics in recent weeks.
Sales manager at importer Burbank Produce, Eddie Bowers, said: “The Channel tunnel looks fine at the moment, but a few weeks ago it was horrific. They couldn’t cope with the huge queues caused by increased checks for migrants. It was taking three plus hours to get through the terminal.
“The access area has now been widened so it’s much better.”
FTA deputy chief executive James Hookham said: “I was provided with a full briefing by the minister on latest developments, including the installation of new security fencing and additional checks being carried out to keep migrants away from vehicles and to defend the UK border against clandestine entry.”
“We are expecting further work with the Home Office and Border Agency on specific topics in the coming weeks. This is an issue that requires committed and proactive attention by government, hauliers and their customers.”
Earlier this week, the Port of Dover called for better protection for the freight community. “Our haulage community deserves to be able to go about their business safely and without the growing personal or financial risk associated with it,” said Port of Dover chief executive, Tim Waggott.
