A recently uncovered report by the former independent chief inspector of borders and immigration (ICIBI), David Neal, has exposed "a significant risk to security" at London City Airport.

Neal, who was dismissed from his position last month, submitted his findings to the Home Secretary on February 14.

The report highlighted deficiencies in the Border Force's response to general aviation (GA), stressing the need for urgent action at local, regional, and national levels. Specifically, it recommended that all high-risk flights be met by border force staff and a third of low-risk flights also receive attention.

While specific figures for 2023 were redacted, Neal's assessment described the situation as "shocking" and indicative of systemic issues.

Border Force Director General Phil Douglas disputed some aspects of the report, stating that security checks were conducted on all general aviation arrivals at London City Airport and emphasizing the agency's commitment to border security.

Neal's dismissal came after details of the report were leaked to the press before its public release. He maintained his stance, expressing frustration at the delay in publishing his reports and affirming his obligation to identify border security failings.

In testimony to the House of Lords’ Justice and Home Affairs Committee, Neal reiterated his concerns, citing legislative requirements to address security lapses.

The Daily Mail reported data provided to Neal indicating lapses in checking high-risk private jets, which immigration minister Tom Pursglove refuted, attributing the issue to data misclassification.

Following Neal's dismissal, the Home Office released 13 of his reports on the same day as damning findings from an inquiry into the murder of Sarah Everard by police officer Wayne Couzens, sparking accusations of attempting to bury unfavorable news. Photo by Frans Zwart, Wikimedia commons.