Uncle Sam's got more paperwork!

Christopher Columbus only had to contend with crossing the Atlantic ocean. We on the other hand have to contend with crossing the I's and dotting the T's otherwise "it's on your bike, mate!" at the immigration lines.

On Monday, if you are travelling into the United States, you will need to have completed an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) form, which will give the American authorities all they need to know about you.

According to the Daily Mail, the move to more form-filling is likely to frustrate holiday firms, travel agents and holidaymakers - particularly elderly travellers less at ease with computers. They expect chaos! The changes have not been widely publicised beyond the embassy website. So I'm doing my bit, although it's somewhat late in the day.

Rick Galbraith, of the customs and border protection office at the U.S. Embassy, said, "Esta will not be optional - it will be required before they get on that plane." Which will be they won't get on the plane if they haven't got it..

Travellers will have to state whether they have a range of communicable diseases - including some sexually transmitted diseases and TB - any mental or physical disorders, and whether or not they are drug abusers or drug addicts. I can't believe those suffering from a mental breakdown brought about by the credit crunch are going to admit it on a form. Kind of double whammy. And are all those suffering from "unmentionable diseases" going to admit to anything? I've not seen the form, but it's all a bit iffy in the knowledge department. I wonder if Al Quaeda operatives have any sexually transmitted diseases. Nutcases and fruitcakes, yes, but that is already known.

The rules state: 'If your admission is denied, you have no right to appeal.' Well, Big Brother speaks. He should set up home with Big Sister!