Eurotunnel and the UK Border Agency have reached an agreement that should offer quicker cross channel travel for people heading off on their European holidays through the Channel Tunnel.
Jacques Gounon, chief executive of Eurotunnel, and UK borders and immigration minister Phil Woolas signed an accord to speed up processing times for customers using the tunnel.
Eurotunnel said that ensuring minimum waiting time for travellers at border controls is an important part of the provision of a "hassle-free experience".
The tunnel operator will work with the Border Agency to ensure that the latest technologies and traffic management methods are used to provide a combination of security and speed.
Upon signing the new agreement, Mr Gounon said: "Eurotunnel is the leader in cross channel transport, with advantages in terms of speed, ease and reliability for customers.
"Reducing the time spent with frontier controls whilst ensuring the security of our customers and our infrastructure is a vital element of our service."
Alternatives to the Channel Tunnel include the Dover to Boulogne ferry service operated by LD Lines and cross channel
ferries from Dover to Calais provided by Seafrance and P&O Ferries.
Written by Andrew Smith