Leisure first, it's not a story, neither do I have a view, or work for them.
I am interested in what impact this will have for us as frequent travellers.

We all pay big fees on our tickets; much like we pay massive taxes on fuel...
The money doesn't get spent on roads or an efficient, disciplined, Border force.
A friend of mine who did some policy work in the late 1990's remarked to me once that HM Customs and Excise were an efficient and well-run organisation.... that was axed by Gordon Brown to form with Immigration, become the UKBA... an unmitigated disaster... like many things he did.

Ah. yes. A police constable may start on 23K but their pay scale currently extends to 34K I believe.
Further, an Officer of the UKBA at passport stamping grade undertaking interviews and investigation is badged as the equivalent of a Sergeant.... at least in terms of the Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984.