LONDON (Sputnik) — The entire UK coastline extends for about 7,700 miles. In May, the UK government announced it would strengthen the border fleet, with the first batch of vessels to be sent in the near future.
"The number of Border Force vessels in operation appears to be worryingly low. Royal Navy vessels should be made available to Border Force to make up for shortfalls, where necessary," the statement reads.
According to the Committee, the UK Border Force is experiencing problems in gaining access to a sufficient number of patrol boats as only four of the new vessels are currently deployed and the remaining four will not be available for more than a year.
"Maritime patrols are an essential element of border security for an island nation. Border Force needs to be given all the necessary equipment, including vessels, to enable it to carry out its responsibilities effectively," the statement adds.