Train services from Paris to London were delayed and there were huge queues today as French customs staff staged “Brexit-style” security checks at the Gare du Nord.
The border officials imposed a “work-to-rule” as they demanded a boost to their workforce to deal with extra checks after the UK quits the European Union.
As passengers and trains were hit by delays of up to two hours, one border guard declared: “This will be what it is like after Brexit. Back to 1970s.”
Customs officials are convinced that clearing passengers for Eurostar services from the French capital will become much harder once Britain leaves the EU.
Vincent Thomazo, of France’s UNSA customs union, confirmed that officials were imposing a work to rule today.
‘We are making sure controls are very strict,’ said Mr Thomazo, who said there was deep concern about how the free flow of people would be hampered by Brexit.