Tom Harwood has slammed the European Parliament over what he called an “absurd” social media post, in which the EU appeared to issue Father Christmas with biometric identification.
The post, shared ahead of Christmas, claimed Santa can deliver gifts across Europe thanks to the EU customs union and Schengen area.
Speaking on GB News, Tom said: "I’m wearing a silly jumper and we are not the only ones getting involved in a bit of festive cheer."
Co-host Olivia Utley responded: "Oh, this is just appalling. Go on, tell them."
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Tom explained: "It’s the European Parliament. They’ve put out a graphic on social media for the world to see.
"They ask, 'ever wondered how Santa delivers his gifts so fast across Europe?' and, of course, they call him Santa, not Father Christmas. Which is just incorrect.
"They say it’s all thanks to the EU customs union and the Schengen area. And apparently, Father Christmas now needs bureaucratic approval to travel across Europe.
"There’s nothing more European Union than issuing Father Christmas some identification, biometric documents, otherwise he wouldn’t be allowed to deliver his presents.
Santa has been issued a biometric ID by the EU
|EU/GB NEWS
Olivia fumed: "Honestly, it’s ridiculous. If you’re the European Parliament, just stay off social media on Christmas Eve.
"No one needs to hear from you. Sometimes it’s better not to tweet."
Tom exploded: "The idea that Father Christmas couldn’t deliver without biometric identification is absurd.
"What was he doing 100 years ago, before any of this existed? He wasn’t subject to regulations. It’s so European. Oh my goodness."
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Tom Harwood was furious at the social media post
|GB NEWS
Posting on social media the EU wrote: "Thanks to Schengen, Santa doesn’t even need a passport check as he crosses borders.
"And the EU customs union keeps gifts flowing just as smoothly!
"May your holiday travels and final preparations be as seamless as Santa’s journey through the European Union."
Europe’s long-awaited Entry/Exit System (EES) began its rollout in October, introducing a major shift in how non-EU travellers enter and exit the Schengen Area.
Under the new system, all visitors from outside the EU must register their fingerprints and facial images when crossing into Europe’s passport-free zone.
The EES will gradually replace traditional passport stamps with a digital record, tracking travellers’ movements across 29 countries.
The system is expected to be fully operational by April 10, 2026.
Non-EU travellers will now scan their passports, provide fingerprints, and have a facial photograph taken upon arrival.
These details will be stored for three years, creating a digital record tied to each individual’s identity and passport.
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