Scientists travelling back to UK on Eurostar with samples may be subject to a security check by Eurostar authorities.

In order to obtain authorisation from French authorities prior to their journey, users should send the following information to the address given below:

• Type of sample concerned
• Reason for transporting sample
• Name of sample responsible(s) during transport
• Date and time of train to London.

Direction régionale des douanes de Paris

A l'attention du Pôle Action Economique
16 rue Yves Toudic
75010 PARIS

Once the authorities have processed the request, authorisation is sent to the user as well as to the Security Inspection Squad so that the sample is not opened during transit.

Please note that, due to the present national French emergency programme against terrorist attacks (VigiPirate), x-ray screening is carried out systematically.

However, you are invited to contact the French Customs office in Paris in order to obtain clearance (a specific letter) for travelling with your samples:

Users should send their letter to the following address:

Direction régionale des douanes de Paris
A l'attention du Pôle Action Economique
16 rue Yves Toudic
75010 PARIS

The following information should be provided in this letter:

• Type of samples concerned
• Reason for transporting sample
• Name(s) of person(s) responsible for the samples during transport
• Date and time of the train on which the samples willl be carried.

On receipt of this letter, a special dispensation will sent to the Users concerned, and a copy to the Safety Control Brigade, so that containers will not be opened on the Eurostar site.  However, containers will still need to pass through X-ray control.

Scientists may also contact:

Eurostar Security Standards Management Security Pass Office
St Pancras International
Pancras Road, LONDON NW1 2QP