The Identity and Passport Service (IPS) has begun issuing to British travellers the first 48-page ‘jumbo’ biometric ePassport from its seven regional offices. Ideal for frequent globetrotters, the ‘eJumbo’ is the latest version of the UK passport, combining the security enhancements of the 32-page ePassport introduced last year with 16 extra pages of space for visas.

Home Office minister Joan Ryan said: “I am delighted that following the very successful switchover from digital passports to the new generation of more secure biometric ePassports last year, the Identity and Passport Service is now offering frequent travellers the new ‘jumbo’ 48 page ePassport. We are a nation of seasoned travellers, and issue more passports than any other country in the world bar the United States. 80% of the UK population now holds a passport, and a record 6.6 million were issued last year alone. The ‘eJumbo’ will provide a popular alternative to the standard ePassport for Brits regularly travelling abroad, be it for work or pleasure.”

Welcoming the launch of the new 48-page passport, actor, writer and traveller Michael Palin said:

“Big journeys require big passports, so I’m delighted the Identity and Passport Service is offering adventurous travellers the jumbo biometric passport with more pages for your visas and, of course, visa-free travel to the USA.”

In 2006 IPS introduced the 32-page biometric ePassport, containing a secure chip storing the holder’s personal details and a scan of their photo, as well as other improved security features. The new design is harder to forge, the new security features show whether the passport is genuine or has been tampered with and the facial biometrics on the chip help link the passport holder to the document. Four million ePassports have been issued to UK citizens to date. The new 48-page ePassport can be applied for using the standard application routes (see www.ips.gov.uk or call the IPS Adviceline on 0870 15210410 ).

The introduction of biometric passports is part of an international move to enhance passport security and combat the growing threat of fraud and forgery. Last year IPS also boosted passport security with tougher background checks on applicants, and in 2007 it will begin calling first-time adult applicants to face-to-face interviews to make passport fraud even harder.

IPS is an Executive Agency of the Home Office. It was created on April 1, 2006, incorporating the UK Passport Service and the Home Office Identity Cards Programme. Its mission is “safeguarding your identity.” It is responsible for issuing passports to UK residents, and ensuring that the British passport remains amongst the most secure worldwide. The IPS has seven regional offices, in Belfast, Durham, Glasgow, Liverpool, London, Newport, and Peterborough.