The government's next-generation border control technology pilot has screened 29 million passengers and led to 1000 arrests, according to a government report published today.

The multi-million pound Semaphore pilot project, being run by IBM, started in 2004 and covers 10 international routes.

It is the precursor to the £1.2bn eBorders scheme which is currently being procured. The programme will link relevant government agencies, as well as travel industry systems and transport hubs such as ports and airports.

Initially, it will log every person entering and leaving the UK. Ultimately, travellers’ details will be checked against government systems, with permission to enter the UK granted or denied before they leave foreign soil.

By 2009 the system will count the majority of travellers in and out of the country, says the government.

Immigration minister Liam Byrne said: 'We are creating an overseas border control with tougher checks before travellers board a train, plane or boat for Britain.

'The eBorders programme will provide a critical aid to security and counter terrorist work - by locking passengers to their identity we will create a new offshore line of defence, helping genuine travellers but stopping those who pose a risk before they travel.'

Consortia led by BT and Raytheon are on the shortlist for the eBorders deal.