UK – IBM to supply computerized immigration system

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A computer program, "Project Semaphore," will in the future be used to identify people entering the UK. Travelers will also automatically be crosschecked against databases of individuals who pose a security risk and keep a record of entry into the country.

The system will also be used to monitor the duration of people's stay in the UK, thus, helping authorities to make sure visas or work permits are not overstayed. Still, the Semaphore program is not expected to be fully up and running until 2008.

Immigration minister, Des Browne, said in a statement that this is project is yet another step toward safe-guarding the UK against terrorism, organized crime and illegal immigration.

For more information about living and working in the UK, please visit the UK immigration section on our website.